This has pharmacological implications to target specific HIF-1, IL-6, and TNF-α signaling pathways for dysfunction and vulnerability related to DR.[50] Dex promotes the recovery of renal function and reduces the inflammatory level in RIRI rats through the PI3K/Akt/HIF-1α signaling pathway.[51] HIF-1α was overexpressed in COPD, which upregulated expressions of inflammatory factors via activating the EGFR/PI3K/AKT pathway. The gene discussed is HIF1A; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.