Inflammation-mediated activation of the cytoskeletal contractile apparatus in ARDS, involving proinflammatory mediators [thrombin, histamine, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)], and PRR ligation by PAMPs (such as LPS) and DAMPs (such as eNAMPT), induces massive disruption of the alveolar-capillary barrier, resulting in alveolar flooding. The gene discussed is VEGFA; the disease is acute respiratory distress syndrome.