Finally, IL-17 and IL-8 (CXCL8) promote inflammation, recruitment and activation of neutrophils and increased levels have been found in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis.22 Moreover, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulation of leukocytes from elderly individuals induces IL-8 release and the latter has been also suggested as a possible longevity factor in centenarians.23 The gene discussed is CXCL8; the disease is inflammatory bowel disease.