The utilisation of clinically relevant Immunological research examples for undergraduate Medical sciences education

Abstract

Abstract Immunology education supports the clinical understanding and contextualisation of important cellular processes and mechanisms. To support effective learning and teaching within undergraduate Medical sciences courses, the integration of clinically relevant Immunological course elements and related research teaching examples are needed. The aim was to incorporate a clinically relevant Immunological based research example, presented in class to 4th year undergraduate Medical sciences students. A partial focus of this work was also to help raise awareness of current health issues and priorities facing Māori and Pacific population groups living in New Zealand (NZ) and the Pacific Region. The autoimmune condition known as Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF), caused by untreated Group A Streptococcal (GAS) infection of the throat (and skin) was discussed in class within the context of regular administration of Benzathine Penicillin G (BPG) that prevents subsequent ARF attacks. Untreated ARF can trigger permanent cardiac damage called Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD). Rates of ARF in NZ, Australia and the Pacific Region are among the highest in the world, particularly within Māori, Pacific and Indigenous Aboriginal population groups. Student feedback indicated that in-depth interest and understanding was demonstrated using the ARF and RHD Immunological based teaching example. In addition, students were motivated to engage in Summer Scholarship placements focused on the ARF/RHD and BPG based research work. These observations highlight the successful incorporation of a clinically relevant Immunological teaching example that supported the learning and application of scientific research content for undergraduate Medical students.