Fig. 2

Forest plots showing associations between gene expression of ACE2, TMPRRS2 and FURIN, and baseline characteristics in a sputum, b bronchial brushings and c bronchial biopsies of asthmatics. Regression coefficients (95% confidence intervals) and p values were determined using multivariate linear regression tests for each gene expression level (as a dependent variable) and baseline parameters including age, gender, and those showing p values < 0.05 in univariate regression tests (shown in Table 1) as independent variables. All independent variables included in each multivariate model are presented. Gene expression levels and inflammatory cell counts (in sputum and blood) were log-transformed to normalize the distribution. Statically significant parameters (p < 0.05) are indicated with red color in symbol. FEV₁ forced expiratory volume in the first second, OCS oral corticosteroid use, post-BD post bronchodilator