The fact that a common IL-32 genotype, rs12934561, was associated with ALI and interacted with other SNPs as well as the need for prolonged mechanical ventilatory support in patients with this condition suggests that IL-32 not only is involved in the initiating inflammatory and cellular events that result in ALI but also participates in determining the severity of pulmonary dysfunction associated with ALI. This evidence concerns the gene IL32 and acute respiratory distress syndrome.