Previous studies using 3 weeks of direct moxibustion of Zusanli (ST36) and Shenshu (BL23) decreased the level of TNF-α and IL1-β in the synovial fluid of articular cavities in RA rabbit model [29], indicating a role of moxibustion in downregulation of inflammatory cytokines. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is rheumatoid arthritis.