ACE and pneumonia: An association of the D-allele with enhanced CD143 activity has previously been established.10 The same allele has been linked with a wide range of diseases, ranging from cardiovascular events and renal disorders.11 Moreover, individuals harboring the D-allele are shown to have greater risk of pneumonia.12 The I/I genotype, however, contributes to a high chance of survival for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.13,14