Although studies showing a direct association of the hypoxic environment (at high altitude) with autoimmune diseases have not yet been reported, there is significant evidence to support that hypoxic conditions result in altered immune system activity, such as increased B and T cell proliferation, reduced Treg cell proliferation/activity, and increased ROS production, resulting in overexpression of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as NF-κB, IL-6, and IL-8. The gene discussed is CXCL8; the disease is autoimmune disease.