Selective loss (>90%) of hypocretin producing neurons in hypothalamus. Evidence of genetic susceptibility  (HLADQB1) and infectious trigger.  Hypocretin-specific autoreactive CD4+ and CD8+ T cells detected in Narcolpesy patients blood and CSF. Anti-TRIB2 antibodies found in serum of 14 to 26% of narcolepsy patients (directed against protein produced in hypocretin neurons, Tribbles homolog2). The gene discussed is CD8A; the disease is narcolepsy.