It has been hypothesized that several factors could contribute to the emergence of infections due to antimicrobial-resistance pathogens in critically ill patients including ICU stay, mechanical ventilation, high concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines released (e.g. IL-2, IL-6, TNF–α), aggressive use of immunomodulatory therapies, and overuse of antibiotics27,28. The gene discussed is IL2; the disease is infection.