Thus, optimal activation of the microRNA34/GAS6–Axl pathway is required for DC control of the adaptive immune response, and low expression of Axl in CD1c+ DCs in rheumatoid arthritis patients could contribute to the initiation and perpetuation of disease by facilitating the activation of autoreactive T cells upon initial bystander trigger, e.g. infection or tissue damage. Here, GAS6 is linked to rheumatoid arthritis.