Specifically, expression of STAT1, NFATC2, and c-Fos (Figures 3-IIA, IIB, and IIC respectively) was significantly increased (∼2 fold; p<0.05) in the low-CTLA4 CLL subgroup (or high CD38 group) in comparison to the high-CTLA4 CLL group (or low CD38 group). Here, STAT1 is linked to B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia.