One of the things we will note about the mammalian immune system in this course is how it displays redundancy. What I mean by this is that the immune system possesses many different mechanisms to remove or neutralize pathogens. For instance, the complement system is a blood born system that is like a mini-immune system all by itself. It has components which can bind and neutralize or kill bacteria. But so can many other parts of the immune system like leukocytes and antibodies and other enzymatic factors.

Why is the immune system so redundant? Is this inefficient design? If so, is the immune system better explained by an evolutionary origin? Or is redundancy an example of something you would find in a designed system? Discuss your thoughts with your classmates and others who might join the blog.

This blog is due SEPT 15!!

vaccine controversy

The history of Immunology largely involves the discovery of vaccines. Vaccines have undoubtedly saved millions of lives over the decades they have been used. However vaccines are not without controversy. Many people think that there is a link between vaccine use and childhood syndromes like autism.
Another controversy involving vaccines is there use in modern warfare. Apparently, the CIA sponsored military intelligence team which gathered information about Osama Bin Laden gained access to his living area by posing as a humanitarian team distributing polio vaccines. Although the elimination of the terrorist Bin Laden was a victory for the U.S. the spread of the polio vaccine in Pakistan and other areas may now be hampered.

Do some research and examine the evidence. Do you think there is a link between autism and vaccine use?

Would you or will you have your children vaccinated?

Do you think polio can be eradicated?

Blog responses are due Sept 5.