When The Body Attacks Itself

Marson: One of the major drugs that's used to suppress the immune system now is cyclosporin, which inhibits a protein called NFAT. We and others have evidence that Foxp3 is also inhibiting that protein.

Young: Many of these genes are operating together with others, collaborating in the control of regulatory T-cell function. They're like drinking buddies. So it may turn out that the connection is a whole lot closer than we've imagined.

© 2007