To identify the immune mechanisms targeted by MTX+LEF combination therapy that may contribute to RA recovery, we monitored alterations in different circulating subsets of IL-22+CD4+Th cells and the plasma concentrations of cytokines IL-22, IL-17, and IFN-γ, in 60 patients with active RA, before and after a 12-week treatment course. The gene discussed is IL22; the disease is rheumatoid arthritis.