This was attributed to reduced transcription of the HMOX1 gene, which encodes HO-1, along with global downregulation of hypoxia response genes in DS at baseline and after RSV infection in TS21 AECs.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Severe RSV infections in children with DS may be linked to intrinsic defects in AEC responses to hypoxia, including NRF2-driven cytoprotective enzymes like HO-1. Here, HMOX1 is linked to Dravet syndrome.