For example, magnesium deficiency triggers leukocyte and macrophage activation, cytokine release, and elevated acute-phase reactants such as CRP.[14] In chronic contexts, lower magnesium status correlates with heightened systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.[14] Paradoxically, among our acutely ill population, those with the highest magnesium levels also had the highest levels of inflammatory markers. The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is magnesium deficiency.