Network analysis demonstrated that inflammation and subsequent ECM remodelling in lung tissue are key steps of ALI development, and pharmacologically targeting key nodes involved in these processes (inflammation: Il6, ECM modulation: Timp1, Serpine1, Ccl2, Mmp8, Ptx3) may be a promising therapeutic strategy to treat ALI/ARDS. This evidence concerns the gene TIMP1 and acute respiratory distress syndrome.