In previous studies, we have reported that immune cell subsets other than CD4+ T-cells [i.e., CD4neg CD8neg double negative T-cells60 and CD8αα T-cells37] can exert some CD4-like immune functions in AGMs, as an adaptive protection mechanism aimed at maintaining the homeostasis of the helper function and avoiding progression to AIDS in the context of a massive CD4+ T-cell lymphopenia. The gene discussed is CD4; the disease is AIDS.