In contrast, we found that FEV1 was no longer associated with the number of BDCA-1 positive DC in lamina propria of the small airways when the treatment with corticosteroids was taken into account, suggesting that the lower number of BDCA-1 positive DC observed in COPD patients could at least be partially attributed to the treatment with corticosteroids, as these medications are mainly prescribed in the more severe stages of COPD. The gene discussed is CD1C; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.