The attenuation of IL-31 production following this treatment is particularly interesting given the evidence that IL-31 is a key cytokine implicated in itching in allergic dogs and that mAb directed to IL-31 has been licenced for use in the treatment of allergic dermatitis [18], while vaccination against IL-31 has also been proposed as a novel therapy in such animals [30]. The gene discussed is IL31; the disease is atopic eczema.