However, in studies using a chronic LCMV variants that requires >3 months to be contained and cleared by the LCMV‐specific CD8 T‐cell response, even transient depletion of CD4 T cells at the time of infection resulted in a complete loss of CD8 T‐cell response to control the virus.14 These studies provide support for the concept that loss of CD4 T‐cell help can enhance conditions that lead to CD8 T‐cell exhaustion. The gene discussed is CD4; the disease is infection.