526-324 Immunological Techniques

526-304 Principles of Immunology.

The subject provides an overview of immunological methods, including preparation, characterisation, separation and assay of lymphocyte populations; characterisation, separation and assay of antigens and immunoglobulins; assay of the immune response to infection; and detection of normal and abnormal antigens in tissues.

By the end of the subject students should have developed:

• skills in the in-vitro manipulation and quantification of cells belonging to the immune system;

• skills in the measurement of cell function;

• skills in separation, detection and quantification of immuno-globulins and antigens; and

• an understanding of the basis of the serological diagnosis of disease.

Students should have an enhanced understanding of the experimental basis of our knowledge of the immune response. They should understand the role of controls in interpretation of experiments. They should appreciate the necessity to keep clear laboratory notes as experiments progress.

Attendance at practical classes is compulsory. Students must attend at least 80% of the laboratory-based component to be considered for assessment.

Weekly written reports of completed laboratory work totalling up to 3000 words (50%); a 2-hour practical examination during the semester (50%). Satisfactory completion of the laboratory work, written reports and the practical examination is necessary to pass the subject.