Phylogenetic tree figure showing the evolution of the immune system. (Image by Olsen, V. Beth Kuser. 1997. “Evolutionary Tree.” Retrieved in 2010 from V. Beth Kuser Olsen’s Homepage. Cecil College: Maryland. Available online.)
Instructor(s)
Dr. Nadia Danilova
MIT Course Number
7.345
As Taught In
Spring 2005
Level
Undergraduate
Course Description
Course Description
In this course, evolutionary pathways that have led to the development of innate and adaptive immunity are analyzed, the conserved and unique features of the immune response from bacteria to higher vertebrates is traced, and factors, such as adaptive changes in pathogens that have shaped the evolution of immune system are identified.
This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting.