Our analyses suggest that ZDF balances Th1/Th2 activities in patients with ITP by inhibiting the release of the Th1-type cytokines IL-2 and IFN-γ (thus reducing 9-cis-retinoic acid levels), by promoting IL-4 release, and by inhibiting IL-10 release by upregulation of arginine and downregulation of S1P and oleic acid amide. The gene discussed is IL2; the disease is autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura.