Neuroimmunology

The brain’s immune response differs to that of other organs, primarily due to the presence of the blood-brain barrier and brain cells called glia. These responses are fine-tuned by signals from peripheral immune cells and, more speculatively, influenced by the gut microbiome. Central immune responses are important for maintaining normal brain function, but may go awry in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and depression. The immune responses also support the brain’s recovery from injuries such as those arising from trauma, oxygen deprivation and infection.    

This module will explore the current understanding of how peripheral and central immune systems interact to affect operation of the nervous system, paying particular attention to pathogenic mechanisms. It will focus particularly on the diverse role played by glia.  

NEU1006 Introduction to Neuroscience (formerly CSC1006) and/or CSC2012 Disease, Diagnostics and Therapeutics are pre-requisite for this module. NEU2018 Neural Circuits (formerly CSC2018) is recommended. This module is optional for students studying BSc Neuroscience and BSc Medical Sciences. Students in other disciplines may take the module if they meet the pre-requisites. 

The overall aim of the module is to recognise the role of central immune responses in normal brain functioning, and in the development and progression of disease.   

Through lectures, technical masterclass sessions and written assignments you will have opportunities to understand central immune responses to infections and trauma of the brain, and how these responses contribute to neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. You will appreciate the role of non-neuronal cells found in the brain: astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes. Key aspects of the associated signalling we explore may include chemokine, cannabinoid, and trace amine-associated receptors.  

Overall, this module will enhance your transferrable skills by helping to develop your strengths in: 

1. Data analysis and Interpretation 

You will consider the logic of scientific inference and principles of statistical analysis. You will further develop the skills needed to understand and interpret scientific data by analysing existing data sets, and through the manipulation of new data acquired through supervised laboratory sessions.  

2. Applied Research Techniques  

You will become familiar with techniques widely used in neuroscience, neurology, and immunology to study brain inflammation. Specific examples will include immunohistochemistry, animal models, pharmacological manipulations of glia cells, electrophysiology and current methods of neuroimaging. You will also have the opportunity to apply some of these techniques directly through masterclass sessions with leading research scientists in the field of Neuroimmunology.  

3. Critical Appraisal.  

Through formative and summative assessments, you will develop your ability to identify, review and appraise scientific literature whilst working as part of the group. 

The module’s precise content will vary from year to year, but the following information describes its typical structure.  

Lectures  

A total of fourteen lecture sessions will be delivered, incorporating ten different Neuroimmunology themes. Each week will consist of a one hour lecture, followed by a 1 hour Question and Answer session. The introductory lecture (week 1) will outline the broad aims of the module, its weekly structure, assessment processes and other practicalities. Another lecture will focus on the module’s assessment: writing a research project proposal.   

The other 10 lecture themes may cover the following subjects: 

Masterclass sessions  

There will be two applied research technique sessions, each lasting three hours. In these you will cover the past, present and future research techniques used in more detail. You will interpret and analyse the expected outcome of key Neuroimmunology methods such as immunohistochemistry, morphology of glial cells and electrophysiological techniques.  

Seminars 

There will be two seminars, each two hours long, which will help you to prepare your assessed research proposal. You will be provided with suggested topics prior the first seminar and will be expected to prepare for the session. At the first seminar you will work in groups discussing material you found and further shaping your proposal. The suggested topics will be broad enough that you will be able to identify, in more detail, material of interest to you and at the same time, share your knowledge with others in the groups.  

During the second seminar you will be given feedback on the 1-page proposal you individually prepared ahead of the session. The feedback will be provided by both the peer group and the tutor and discussed at the seminar. During this session you will also have an opportunity to clarify any questions related to the assignment.