Based on separate studies of RV infection (Bossios et al, 2008) and asthma (Broide et al, 2005; Poynter et al, 2002; Stacey et al, 1997), it has been speculated that RV-induced asthma exacerbations are a consequence of allergen-induced responses and infection interacting to cause increased NF-κB activation and NF-κB-regulated inflammation in the airways. The gene discussed is NFKB1; the disease is asthma.