In contrast, the acute pancreatitis network displayed a different pattern, with CAMP co-expressed alongside S100A8 and S100A9, whereas alpha-defensins were downregulated and associated with inhibited mucosal immune responses.<h4>Conclusion</h4>These findings suggest that antimicrobial peptides contribute variably to systemic inflammation depending on the underlying insult, underscoring their complex, context-dependent roles in critical illness. The gene discussed is S100A8; the disease is acute pancreatitis.