FUT2: filling the gap between genes and environment in Behçet's disease?
This study suggests for the first time a putative link between a specific gene and environment in the aetiopathogenesis of BD. The non-secretor phenotype affects mucosal glycosylation, which may explain its known association with dysbiosis and altered susceptibility to infections. A different antigenic stimulation in early life and consequent increased propensity for autoimmunity and inflammation may contribute to BD development.
Since the N- and C-terminus of CDK4 are neighboring in the predicted three-dimensional protein structure, it is conceivable that they comprise a single binding domain, which interacts with the Tax N-terminus.