In animal models of T1D, TNF-α has been shown to directly potentiate toxic effects of other inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and interferon gamma and directly contribute to the destruction of β-cells (Mandrup-Poulsen et al, 1987; Eizirik, 1988; Pukel et al, 1988). The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is type 1 diabetes mellitus.