Considering the inverse relationship between allergic diseases (Th2 dominant) and autoimmune diseases (Th1 dominant), and the role of CTLA-4 polymorphisms in determining the Th1/Th2 balance [45], it is biologically plausible that the A allele of the +49 A/G polymorphism could increase the susceptibility of asthma. The gene discussed is CTLA4; the disease is autoimmune disease.