IMMUNOLOGY SIMPLIFIED
This one-day seminar provides a overview of the  three general principles of the immune system--1) recognition of self vs. non-self, 2) selectivity and specificity, and 3) memory. Each of the general principles will be discussed in greater detail, including HLA antibodies, tissue typing for transplant surgery, recognition of specific pathogens and responding, and memory in the form of T-cell memory and antibodies produced by the plasma cells. The seminar also covers the function of the macrophage antigen processing cell and the presentation of the antigens to the cells of the immune system. Various cytokines will be discussed including the interleukins, the interferons, and tumor necrosis factor. Drugs that modulate these cytokines include steroids, monoclonal antibodies, methotrexate, receptor antagonists, will also be discussed as they relate to the immune system and to diseases.  B lymphocytes, plasma cells, antibodies,  T lymphocytes, and Natural Killer cells will be dis­cussed and correlated with clinical conditions including leukemias, lymphomas, HIV, TB, and drugs made from antibodies (IVIG, monoclonal antibodies). Barb will spend some time on the discussion of monoclonal antibodies used in neurology, ophthalmology, cardiology, oncology, virology and more. The seminar will include how vaccines work, and how long they last. Immunopathology will be discussed according to type. Type 1 immunopathology includes IgE mediated (immediated hypersenstivity) diseases including anaphylaxis, hay fever, asthma, and other allergies. Type 2 immunopathology includes autoimmune reactions to self antigens--Hashimoto's thyroiditis, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune glomerulonephritis. Type 3 immunolopathology includes immune complex diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Type 4 immunopathology includes delayed hypersensitivty reactions including contact dermatitis and poison ivy.  The aging immune system will also be discussed. This is the perfect introduction to the immune system and its functions.