We recently investigated the molecular basis of the non-T cell-mediated properties of the gliadin peptides most likely to play an important role in the very early phases of CD, and we found that P31-43 causes actin alterations and cell proliferation, both of which depend on activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), in several cell types, and in the organ culture of celiac mucosa. The gene discussed is EGFR; the disease is Cowden disease.