To the extent that reduction in glucocorticoid receptor mRNA reflects diminished sensitivity to the anti-inflammatory properties of glucocorticoids and the reduction in beta (2) adrenergic receptor mRNA reflects a reduction of bronchodilatory properties of beta-agonists, this physiological process could explain the increased asthma morbidity associated with stress that has been indicated in children with asthma (Sandel & Wright, 2006; Wright, 2011). The gene discussed is ADRB2; the disease is asthma.