It is possible to perform a CD4 co-receptor blockade, using antibodies, in order to lower T cell activation and counteract autoimmune disorders. This blockade appears to elicit a "dominant" effect, that is to say, once blocked, the T cells do not regain their ability to become active. This effect then spreads to native T cells which then switch to a CD4+CD25+GITR+FoxP3+ T regulatory phenotype.