Content (Syllabus outline)
The composition and function of the immune system is presented on the level of organs, cells and molecules. Their function is explained in relevance to natural and adoptive immunity, specificity of response, importance of antibodies and cellular immunity and their participation in health and disease. Antigens, antibodies, molecular organization, expression of immunoglobulin genes, origin of diversity and interaction between antigens and antibodies are presented in detail. Further molecules of the major histocompatibility system (genetic background, molecular structure, function, regulation of expression, processing and presentation of antigen) are discussed. The students' attention is drawn to the characteristics of lymphocytes, formation of the specific lymphocyte repertoire, activation, differentiation and function. Cytokines – their structure, function, receptors and regulation are presented. There will be discussion of the phenomenon of autoimmunity, problems of transplantation, cancer and particular infections.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites for inclusion in the work:
· enrolment in the appropriate academic year
· knowledge of biochemistry, cell biology, biology of superior organisms, animal and human physiology, microbiology.
Prerequisites for performing study obligations and admittance to final exam:
- presence at practicals
- practical examination (colloquium)