Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2025 - HSCI 326 D100

Introduction to the Immune System (3)

Class Number: 1734

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Aug 8, 2025: Wed, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MBB 231 with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduction to the structure and function of the immune system and how this system protects against microbial infections. Innate immune responses, including the function of innate immune cells, receptors and complement. Adaptive immune responses, including the organization of lymphoid organs, development and function of T and B cells, and antibodies. Students with credit for HSCI 426, MBB 426 or MBB 326 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Lecture Topics 

  1. Innate immune responses – Immediate responses to infections
  2. Innate immune responses – Induced responses to infections
  3. Antibody structure and development
  4. B cell development
  5. T cell receptor structure and development
  6. Antigen presentation to T cells
  7. T cell development
  8. T cell activation and clearance of pathogens
  9. B cell activation and effector functions of antibodies
  10. Immune memory and vaccination

Grading

  • Exam 1 30%
  • Exam 2 30%
  • Exam 3 30%
  • Canvas assignments 10%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

None

REQUIRED READING:

The Immune System, 5th Ed., Peter Parham, 2021. Garland Science.
ISBN: 978-0-393-53334-7

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.