Despite being less researched in lupus, CD8+ T cells also show a strong response to vitamin D. Compared to CD4+ cells, they express more VDR, and when VDR-deficient CD8+ T cells are experimentally transferred, severe colitis is induced along with increased production of IFN-γ and IL-17, especially when IL-10 is not present. The gene discussed is CD8A; the disease is colitis.