In addition, inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, commonly associated with COPD exacerbations and severe COVID-19, were upregulated in COPD HBECs from day 3 post-infection, while interferon responses, specifically IFN-β, were almost completely absent from day 4 post-infection in COPD compared to healthy cells [71]. The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.