Significantly increased numbers of total cells, neutrophil counts, and S100A9 levels in BALF were noted in the NA and MA groups compared to the EA group, and the highest neutrophil counts and S100A9 levels were noted in the NA group compared to the other 2 asthma groups (P < 0.001 for all) (Fig. 5b, c). The gene discussed is S100A9; the disease is asthma.