DCU Home | Our Courses | Loop | Registry | Library | Search DCU
<< Back to Module List

Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).

As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Date posted: September 2024

Module Title Immunology & Immunoanalysis
Module Code BE433 (ITS) / BIO1013 (Banner)
Faculty Science & Health School Biotechnology
Module Co-ordinatorChristine Loscher
Module TeachersDenise Harold, Linda Holland, Michael Freeley, Paul Cahill, Paula Meleady
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite Not Available
Co-requisite Not Available
Compatibles Not Available
Incompatibles Not Available
None
Description

This purpose of this module is to provide a detailed understanding of the theory and applications of advanced aspects of immunology. Students will be given an in depth insight into the advantages and limitations of immunoanalytical approaches in clinical, industrial and research situations.

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain the molecular factors that confer immunogenicity to antigens
2. Describe in detail the cellular components involved generating immunity
3. Discuss in detail the methods used to produce antibodies and their appropriate applications
4. Discuss how antibody-based therapy can be used to treat human disease
5. Describe aspects of immunoanalysis including cytometry, immuno-cytochemistry, sensors and antibody-based targeting of ligands
6. Outline the importance of assay validation and research ethics



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Seminars2No Description
Tutorial4No Description
Independent Study95No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Immunology
The Process of antibody production at the cellular level; Intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence antigenicity; Detailed account of B-cell stimulation; Antigen processing within the B-cell; The function and structure of the major histocompatibility antigens (MHC); The interaction of B-cells and T-cells; Genetic control of the immune response; Latest advances in understanding self, and non-self immune responses.

Immunoanalysis
Methods of antibody production (in detail) including polyclonal, monoclonal, bifunctional, multifunctional, genetic methods and production of antibody-derived fragments; Genetics of antibody production and phage display; Reshaped, chimaeric and human antibodies-production and applications; Use of antibodies in cancer including diagnosis,imaging and treatment; Production and application of conjugates used for the generation of antibodies and in immunoanalysis, Detailed account of immunocytochemistry and its applications;Introduction to next generation diagnostic devices.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Indicative Reading List

  • Ivan M. Roitt, Seamus J. Martin, Peter J. Delves, Dennis Burton,: 0, Roitt's Essential Immunology, 978-1-4051-3603-7
  • Kenneth M. Murphy, Paul Travers, Mark Walport: 2008, Janeway's immunobiology, Garland Science, New York, 978-0-8153-4123-9
Other Resources

None

<< Back to Module List