In particular, increased levels of TLR 4, interleukin (IL)-18, interferon (IFN)-γ, platelet-activating factor, IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, and nuclear factor-κB have been linked to NEC severity, while deficiencies of TLR 9, IL-1R8, IL-1Ra, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2, platelet-activating factor-acetylhydrolase, and IL-10 pave the way for NEC-associated inflammation.38 This evidence concerns the gene CXCL8 and necrotizing enterocolitis.