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Haematology & Immunology in Health & Disease - BIO00085H

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  • Department: Biology
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Jillian Barlow
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Module summary

This module will cover key areas underlying the study of haematology and immunology, including the development of the blood system and stem cells, defence of the body by the innate and adaptive immune system, and the contribution of adaptive immunity in directing the immune response. We will discuss key concepts in how the immune system can combat globally-important human diseases, and what happens when an inappropriate response is mounted, for example in chronic inflammation, autoimmunity, and allergy. Fundamental links will be drawn between experimental studies, including cutting edge genetic and transcriptomic technologies, and the development of novel therapies to reflect on our continued efforts to improve human health.

Related modules

Pre-requisite modules

Co-requisite modules

  • None

Prohibited combinations

  • None

Additional information

BIO00011I Cell Biology and BIO00055I Understanding Health and Disease are recommended modules.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23 to Summer Term 2022-23

Module aims

Human health and our ability as scientists to understand, treat, and cure disease has an incredible impact on communities across the globe. Underlying the development of novel drugs and therapies against pathogens, in treating autoimmunity and allergy, or in curing diseases such as cancer, is the vital research being undertaken to understand how the human host responds to and defends itself against these insults. The aim of this module is to provide a fundamental understanding of the cells, molecules, and genes involved in the immune and blood system, how these protect the host, but also how they can cause and contribute to disease. Students will explore key concepts in blood cell development, innate and adaptive immunity, and immune dysfunction, before considering how experimental work leads to novel treatments to improve human health. The module will also integrate key concepts with reference to research data, encouraging students to critically analyse primary research articles and explore new strategies in experimental design.

Module learning outcomes

1. Understand and explain the key concepts and terminology in immune and blood cell development.

2. Identify the relevant cells, molecules, and genes that drive haematopoiesis, innate and adapative immunity and evaluate how this contributes to fighting human disease.

3. Integrate knowledge of innate and adaptive immunity to intepret the mechanisms that underlye immune disorder.

4. Critically assess experimental data relating to immune and blood cell function and discuss how this impacts development of novel therapies.

5. Explore and synthesise experimental design in the context of key haematological and immunological concepts.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Online Exam		 8 hours 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Online Exam		 8 hours 100

Module feedback

Cohort-level feedback will be provided on performance in closed exams and made available via the VLE. Individual marks will be made available to you and your supervisor via e:vision. Exam scripts will be made available at the end of either the Spring or Summer terms. You should take the opportunity to discuss your marks and feedback with your supervisor.

During the teaching of the module you will receive feedback that may be at a whole class or individual level. Forms of feedback may include: model answers and discussion of workshop questions, summaries of performance in practicals, VLE-based quizzes, individual spoken comments during workshops, individual written comments on formative work.

Indicative reading

These are available through the VLE module site.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.