Gene-pathway network was constructed to the core and key target genes. The network showed that RELA had largest degree, was the core target gene. Other top five genes such as MAPK1, MAPK14, CASP3, CASP8 and IL6 might be the key target genes. The pathophysiological process of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2) infection is similar to that of SARS-CoV infection, with a strong inflammatory response. The SARS-COV-2 virus mainly targets respiratory epithelial cells, alveolar epithelial cells, vascular endothelial cells and pulmonary macrophages, all of which express Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, triggering the generation of pro- inflammatory cytokines and chemokines (including IL-6, TNF, IL-10 and MCP1) 41. The NF-kB family member RELA is a widely expressed and effective transcriptional activator that activates the expression of many inflammatory through exposure to pathogens and inflammatory cytokines 42. RELA may play an important role in the infection of COVID-19. MAPK1 and MAPK14 are members of the MAPK family, which can regulate multiple cellular processes, such as response to oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, immune response, apoptosis and cell proliferation 43. Joseph et al showed SASR-CoV-2 could induce severe inflammation by directly activating p38 MAPK pathway and many p38 MAPK inhibitors are in the clinical stage and should be considered for clinical trial for severe COVID-19 infection 44. CASP3 and CASP8, a family of cysteine-dependent proteases, play an important role in these events through activation of other apoptotic proteins mediated by proteolysis and cleavage of nuclear proteins 45. In Krahling's study, infection of 293/ACE2 cells with SARS-CoV activated apoptosis-associated events, such as caspase3, caspase 846. Therefore, we conclude that CASP3 and CASP8 may be activated and play an important role in the pathophysiological process of COVID-19. Higher plasma level of IL-6 was found in ICU patients with COVID-1947. Tocilizumab, a recombinant humanized anti-human IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody, improved the clinical outcome in 20 severe and critical COVID-19 patients and is an effective treatment to reduce mortality 48.