SPP1 and Autoimmunity: Analysis of gene transcripts found in MS lesions via gene chip microarrays has revealed significant expression of osteopontin and aB crystallin.[62] Osteopontin has properties of a proinflammatory cytokine and may prevent the apoptosis of autoreactive T-cells.[63] On the other hand, aB crystallin has an inhibitory effect on autoimmunity and it appears to be a major target of autoreactive T-cells and intrathecal antibodies.[64] Therapeutic interventions that block osteopontin function or enhance aB crystallin function are now in early stages of development.