Recent studies have shown a link between PM exposure and oxidative stress, which may impair endothelial-dependent vasodilation as well as increased levels of fibrinogen (an established risk factor for myocardial infarction and stroke), C reactive protein, IL-6, and IL-8 (Brook et al. 2003, 2004). The gene discussed is CXCL8; the disease is myocardial infarction.