To test whether blocking binding of TTP to its target mRNAs enhanced expression of protective cytokines, such as TNF‐α, iNOS, and IL‐12 family cytokines, we synthesized a consensus sequence of the ARE (UUAUUUAUUUAUU) which could competitively bind to endogenous TTP and therefore prevent it from destabilizing target mRNAs during infection. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is infection.