By using human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBECs) and CS-induced COPD mouse models, Guo et al. recently found that β-catenin activator SB216763 and β-catenin small-interfering RNA (siRNA) could reduce and exacerbate the production of inflammatory cytokines TNFα and IL-1β in 16HBECs exposed to CS extract (CSE), respectively. The gene discussed is IL1B; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.