Infection & Immunity

Bacteriology:

Through various examples, students will gain a better understanding of the concept of pathogenicity in relation to bacterial virulence. The methods and mechanisms used to manipulate the body’s cells at the mucosal level in order to penetrate the internal environment—that is, invasive potential—will be discussed, as well as the perception of environmental signals and the integration of these signals to coordinate the response of prokaryotes so that they exhibit collective behavior. A description of several examples of toxins and modulins associated with colonization and/or invasion will provide a better understanding of the differences in strategies among prokaryotic pathogens. Finally, we will address the concept of the microbiota and its influence on the body’s functioning, as well as its role in the development of certain diseases.

Immunology:

The Immunology section provides an overview of how the immune system functions during infection. From the initiation and progression of the inflammatory response upon the recognition of non-self signals by the innate immune system (PRR-PAMP) to the mechanisms of cell activation and the resulting cellular responses, we can appreciate the diversity of possibilities offered by the various components of the immune system. Furthermore, the sequence of events leading to the direction of the immune response and the acquisition of lasting protection during the adaptive phase will provide a better understanding of vaccine strategy. Finally, intestinal mucosal immunity will be discussed in the context of the relationship between the host and the microbiota.

- Understand the factors and mechanisms underlying the pathogenicity of bacteria, as well as the mechanisms of escape and infection control

- Establish a link between the immune system's activity and the fight against pathogens

- Master the scientific method: hypothesis, experiments, observation, interpretation, conclusion

- How to read a scientific biology article in English

- Be able to critically evaluate experiments and scientific findings

Microbiology 2, Microbiology 3, Immunology