Undergraduate study

Undergraduate 

Immunology BSc/MSci

Immunological Basis of Inflammatory Disease 4D option BIOL4186

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Infection and Immunity
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course focuses on the mechanisms and/or treatment of common autoimmune diseases and other immunopathologies, such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, atherosclerosis, cancer etc. 

Timetable

This option is assigned to block S2-D. Normally, there is 3 hours of teaching on Fridays, which may be split over more than one session.

Excluded Courses

None

Assessment

The course will be assessed by a 2-hour examination (70%) and in-course assessment consisting of a review article (30%).

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

The aims of this course are to develop:

■ a detailed understanding of the immunology of a variety of immune-mediated diseases; 

■ an understanding of how the immune system is used to develop novel therapies for immune-mediated diseases; 

■ understanding of current controversies and emerging questions in autoimmunity and immunopathology. 

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course, students will be able to: 

■ evaluate the role of immune responses and inflammation in cancer and heart disease; 

■ evaluate our current understanding of the immune mechanisms underpinning autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, etc; 

■ discuss the molecular and cellular basis for allergic responses; 

■ discuss how molecular and cellular therapies have been applied in the treatment of autoimmunity and other diseases. 

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions