The negative correlation between HB-EGF levels in the CSF and the number of CNS lesions in patients with CIS, which has previously been associated as a major risk factor for disease progression16, may furthermore support the notion that the combined anti-inflammatory and tissue-supportive effects of HB-EGF during early stages of autoimmune CNS inflammation directly contribute to disease progression and severity. The gene discussed is HBEGF; the disease is in situ carcinoma.