BIOL 263

An introduction to basic immunology, types of immune responses, and basic aspects of the specific and non-specific body defense mechanisms as well as the primary immunological diseases and disorders. Prerequisite: BIOL 202.

Course Learning outcomes
This course will help each student to:
- Develop interest in and appreciation for immunology.
- Gain insight about the complexity and efficiency of the immune system.
- Understand the structure and function of the molecules, cells, and organs involved in immunity.
- Understand how cell-mediated and antibody-mediated immunity work to protect a host from pathogenic organisms and harmful substances.
- Study how imbalances in immune responses can result in several pathological states.

C ourse Material
- Overview of the course and Immunity (Ch.1)
-   Innate Immunity and Cells and Organs of the Immune System (Ch 2&3)
- Antigens and Antibodies (Ch 4)
- Antigen-antibody interactions (Ch 6)
- Complement system (Ch 7)
- Major histocompatibility complex (Ch 8)
- T-cell maturation, activation and differentiation (Ch 10)
- B- cell generation, activation and differentiation (Ch 11)
- Immune Effector Mechanisms (Ch 12-15)
- Immune System in Health and Disease (Ch 16-21 selected Topics)

Exams and Grades Distribution
EXAM I:             28%            July    16, 2008;  Wed 10:00pm
EXAM II:            38%           > Aug  10, 2008;           As per AUB Schedule
Project                 30 %
Drop Quiz/Disc    4%   

Course Policy
1.   ATTENDANCE:  You are urged to attend all classes so you do not miss on the material presented in class and in turn the students can benefit from your contribution to class discussions. In case of absence from any class, you are required to cover the material missed and inquire about any announcements made during your absence.  IF ATTENDANCE RECORD IS LESS THAN 80% OF LECTURES, YOU MAY BE DROPPED FROM THE COURSE (see AUB catalogue, FAS-Attendance).
2. EXAMS: NO MAKE-UP EXAMS.  ANY MISSED EXAM WILL BE ADDED TO THE FINAL EXAM (i.e. Exam II will become 70%).  
3.   DROP QUIZZES:  Several drop quizzes will be administered throughout the semester. The total contributions of the drop quizzes would amount up to 4% of your final grade.  If you miss any drop quiz without a valid excuse, you will get a zero. No preparation is required for drop quizzes.  The questions are of a conceptual nature and can be attended to in working groups within the classroom environment. They are meant to encourage discussion and enhance your awareness in a specific field of knowledge in cell biology.
4. CODE OF CONDUCT: Students are expected to respect their colleagues presence in a classroom setting and not to infringe on their rights for acquiring knowledge and for promoting an environment conducive for excellence of instruction (i.e. refrain from side conversations, avoid arriving late to class and avoid use of mobile phones, others )
5. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY. The heart of the teaching profession is integrity. Any violation of academic integrity will not be tolerated and will result in serious repercussions. Please refer to AUB Policies and Procedures on academic integrity. http://pnp.aub.edu.lb/university/handbook/158010044.html

Textbook & resources available to Students
1.   Kuby's Immunology, 6th Edition (2007), Thomas J. Kindt, Richard A Goldsby, and Barbara A. Osborne. W.H. Freeman & Co.
2. Recent literature (suggested readings), and Web sites