The same ZnT8 region has a high homology with HP-derived peptides already evaluated in association with autoimmune thyroiditis [42]; in contrast to MAP, anti-HP Abs were detected at very low levels with similar prevalence in children at risk for T1D and the control group providing additional support for the association of MAP with autoimmune diabetes; therefore, responsiveness to MAP-derived antigens in the former group cannot be explained by an increased overall immune reactivity. This evidence concerns the gene HP and autoimmune thyroid disease.