In a dose-dependent manner, AT1001 (as well as zonulin- neutralizing antibodies) reduced the strength of ALI as quantitated by neutrophil accumulation, albumin leak, and proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-6 (the target of the anti-IL6 human monoclonal Ab Tocilizumab currently in trial for the treatment of COVID-19 infections). The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is acute respiratory distress syndrome.