We selected five plasma biomarkers signifying the endothelial [Ang-2 and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1)], epithelial [soluble receptor for activated glycation end products (sRAGE)], coagulation [plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1)], and neutrophil [matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8)] factors contributing to the pathogenesis of ARDS. The gene discussed is SERPINE1; the disease is acute respiratory distress syndrome.