The present invention provides methods utilizing novel target genes related to immune-mediated diseases, such as asthma, allergy and autoimmune diseases. The invention is based on a molecular level description of the polarization of CD4+ precursor cells (Thp) from which T helper cells are known to originate. Particularly, the present invention provides a method of identifying a compound capable of modulating the polarization of CD4+ lymphocytes. The invention is also related to a method for assessing the presence of, or a predisposition to, an immune-related disorder in a subject.