IL1B and COVID-19: The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the interleukin 1 cytokine family. This cytokine is an important mediator of the inflammatory response, and is involved in a variety of cellular activities, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Patients with severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) present elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1B in bronchial alveolar lavage fluid samples. The lung damage induced by the SARS-CoV-2 is to a large extent, a result of the inflammatory response promoted by cytokines such as IL-1β.