CASP12 and infection: Various single nucleotide polymorphisms of genes that encode cytokines, cell surface receptors, lipopolysaccharide ligands, mannose-binding lectin, heat shock protein 70, angiotensin I-converting enzyme, plasminogen activator inhibitor, and caspase-12 are associated with increased susceptibility to infection and poor outcomes (Frantz, Ertl & Bauersachs, 2007).