Immunological Malfunction?

By Karen A. Pinco

Abstract

This case study was developed to complement the study of the immune system and to emphasize the crosstalk that occurs at the cellular level between B and T cells for proper immune system function. In reading the story of a young couple trying to understand the cause of their infant boy’s constant bacterial infections, students review the different classes of antibodies, their specific functions, and how they arise through isotype switching. In addition, students apply their knowledge of basic genetics as they examine how X-linked disorders are passed along and the role of genetic counselors in medicine.

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Date Posted

01/28/2008

Overview

Objectives

Review the different classes of antibodies and their specific functions.
Review the concept that different classes of antibodies arise through isotype switching (switching the heavy chain type).
Apply knowledge of basic genetics to a review of how X-linked disorders are passed along.
Learn about the role of genetic counselors in medicine.
Studying the role of CD40L in the immune system.
Understand the importance of crosstalk between B and T cells.
Explore how immunoglobulin therapy can help patients with an immunodeficiency disease.
Discuss the potential of biotechnology to find a cure for this disease.
Stimulate a discussion about science and ethics.

Keywords

X-linked agammaglobulinemia with hyper-IgM syndrome; CD40 ligand; immune system; IgM; IgG; T cells; bone marrow transplant; isotype switching; immunoglobulin; pedigree; genetic counselor

Subject Headings

Genetics / Heredity

Physiology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

FORMAT

PDF

TOPICAL AREAS

Ethics

LANGUAGE

English

TYPE/METHODS

Problem-Based Learning