Infection & Immunity

Bacteriology :

Through various examples, students will gain a better understanding of the notion of pathogenicity in relation to bacterial virulence. The means and mechanisms used to manipulate the organism's cells at mucosal level in order to penetrate the internal environment, i.e. invasiveness, will be discussed, as well as the perception of environmental signals and the integration of these signals in order to coordinate the response of prokaryotes so that they adopt group behavior. The description of some examples of toxins and modulins in relation to colonization and/or invasion will provide a better understanding of the differences in strategies between prokaryotic pathogens. Finally, we'll look at the notion of the microbiota and its influence on the functioning of the organism, as well as its implication in the development of certain pathologies.

Immunology:

The Immunology section outlines the workings of the immune system during infection. From the establishment and development of the inflammatory reaction upon recognition of non-self signals by natural immunity (PRR-PAMP), to the mechanisms of cell activation and the cellular responses generated, we can appreciate the diversity of possibilities offered by the different players in the immune system. In addition, the sequence of events leading to the orientation of the immune response and the acquisition of lasting protection during the adaptive phase will provide a better understanding of vaccine strategy. Finally, immunity of the intestinal mucosa will be addressed in the context of the relationship between the host and the microbiota.

- Know the factors and mechanisms of bacterial pathogenicity, as well as escape mechanisms and infection control.

- Linking immune system activity to pathogen control

- Mastering the scientific approach: hypothesis, experiments, observation, interpretation, conclusion

- How to read a scientific biology article in English

- Critique experiments and scientific results

Microbiology 2, Microbiology 3, Immunology