Based on this assumption we developed a new dimensionality reduction approach that allowed us to determine the most influential genes in the CD4+ T cell specific networks and identify significant trans-eQTL associations with two of these genes, BIRC5 and KIAA0101. These cell type-specific regulatory mechanisms are therefore likely to be of high importance in the activity of CD4+ T cells associated with RA pathology. The gene discussed is PCLAF; the disease is rheumatoid arthritis.