HLA-DRB1*01 and DRB1*04 were found to have protective effects against sarcoidosis in Caucasian populations, whilst HLA-DRB1*03, DRB1*11, DRB1*12, DRB1*14, and DRB1*15 were identified as risk factors for the disease (7, 8). The gene discussed is HLA-DRB1; the disease is sarcoidosis.