In general, GI nematodes induce protective Th2 responses in the host, which are characterised by the production of the cytokines IL-4, IL-5, IL-9 and IL-13, the antibodies IgG1 and IgE, and accompanied by eosinophilia, basophilia, mastocytosis, and the expansion of alternatively-activated macrophages (for review see (54)). The gene discussed is IGHE; the disease is Increased total eosinophil count.