The ability of MERTK to suppress activated T cells may extend to previously activated memory T cells [42], providing a clear and plausible link between increased MERTK expression and protection against MS susceptibility, as observed in our DR15 homozygous population: a population in which increased expression of the antigen presenting molecules encoded by the DR15 haplotype is hypothesised to lead to more efficient presentation of encephalitogenic peptides and increased activation of autoreactive T cells [43]. Here, MERTK is linked to myeloid sarcoma.