Through a p38MAPK–MK2/MSK1–CREB dependent signalling pathway, MST1 is required for IL-6 production by DCs as well as for the expression of IL-6Rα/β and phosphorylation of STAT3 in responding T cells, resulting in specific lineage engagement of Th17 cells in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and fungal infection-induced inflammation. The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is fungal infectious disease.