The cytokine storm that occurs after sepsis is a critical factor in the development of ARDS, which is characterized by high levels of proinflammatory cytokines like interferon (IFN)-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-33, IL-18, IL-12, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and chemokines such as CCL2, CCL3, CCL5, CXCL8, CXCL9, and CXCL10. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is acute respiratory distress syndrome.