Previous studies have shown that deletion of IL-23R in B6/lpr and MRL/lpr mice reduced DN T, IFNγ- and IL-17- producing cells, suppressed anti-dsDNA autoantibodies and total IgG production, reduced immune complex deposition, and ameliorated lupus nephritis in the lpr lupus mice (44, 45). This evidence concerns the gene IL17A and systemic lupus erythematosus.