The third novel association involves a cluster of SNPs around rs10883365 (P=1.4×10-8) on chromosome 10q24.2. The most credible candidate here is the NKX2-3 (NK2 transcription factor related, locus 3) gene, a member of the NKX family of homeodomain-containing transcription factors. Targeted disruption of the murine homologue of NKX2-3 results in defective development of the intestine and secondary lymphoid organs69. Abnormal expression of NKX2-3 may alter gut migration of antigen-responsive lymphocytes and influence the intestinal inflammatory response.
