Given that immune suppressive agents such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, thiopurines and steroids as well blocking antibodies against TNF, IL-12/23, and integrins are frequently used in patients with IBD, a better understanding of anti-viral immune responses against SARS-CoV2 will be crucial to protect IBD-patients from potential side effects of immune suppression regarding SARS-CoV-2 infection. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is irritable bowel syndrome.