Immunology and infectious diseases
The immune system is essential to defend the organism against pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi or pluricellular parasites. The goal of this course is to understand how the human immune system fights against these pathogens. Strategies developed by specific pathogens to counteract the immune system will also be highlighted to illustrate the complexity of host-pathogens interactions. Finally, this course will discuss the therapeutic approaches and strategies, currently used or under development, that will help to solve the major public health issues raised by infectious diseases.
The main themes discussed in this course are :
- Diversity of pathogens
- Innate immunity and cell defense mechanisms
- Host barriers
- B Lymphocytes and antibodies
- Role of T lymphocytes in the immune response
- Communication between effectors of the immune system
- Natural or acquired deficiencies of the immune system
- Medical successes and social issues with vaccines
- Current challenges against infectious diseases such as HIV, malaria or COVID-19
Niveau requis : At least one biology module in year 2.
Langue du cours : English
Credits ECTS : 4
- Teaching coordinator: Ribet David