The IFN-α family alone comprises at least 13 different subtypes (Foster & Finter, 1998 ▶) and is thought to play a role in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), type I diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome and thyroid diseases (Selmi et al., 2006 ▶). This evidence concerns the gene IFNA1 and systemic lupus erythematosus.