The pathological manifestation of ARDS is characterized by diffuse alveolar damage, where any of the aforementioned clinical injuries can activate alveolar macrophages, neutrophils, and monocytes, releasing pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), causing a “cytokine storm.” These cytokines attract inflammatory cells to the lungs, releasing toxic mediators damaging the endothelium of capillaries and alveolar cells. The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is acute respiratory distress syndrome.