If the function of PDK4 is affected, it may alter the energy metabolism of cells and thus affect the function of immune cells.[21] The role of PDK4 in airway inflammation or lung function is not clear; however, this does not mean that PDK4 is completely unrelated to asthma because the pathogenesis of asthma is multifactorial, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The gene discussed is PDK4; the disease is asthma.