Gene expression analysis revealed a sepsis-associated decreased transcription of (i) the classical HLA genes HLA-DRA, HLA-DRB1, HLA-DPA1 and HLA-DPB1 and (ii) the gene of the MHC-II master regulator, CIITA (Class II Major Histocompatibility Complex Transactivator). The gene discussed is CIITA; the disease is Sepsis.