Since NFAT activity is higher in IPF with higher FEV1/FVC ratios compared to COPD patients, indicating a late-phase disease state, it is plausible that treating smokers with VIP would reduce the risk of being diagnosed with IPF and that treating early IPF with VIP may inhibit progression of airway and vascular remodeling. The gene discussed is VIP; the disease is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.