Single‐Cell Sequencing Redefines Immune Heterogeneity and Communication Networks in ARDS: Toward Precision Therapeutics

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a critical condition characterized by diffuse alveolar damage and intense inflammatory responses. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, its incidence and mortality have remained persistently high. Conventional approaches have struggled to uncover the complex cellular heterogeneity and dynamic inflammatory networks underlying ARDS. The advent of single‐cell sequencing technologies has revolutionized our ability to dissect the molecular mechanisms of ARDS. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in the application of single‐cell sequencing in studying pulmonary inflammation in ARDS, with a focus on its strengths in elucidating immune cell heterogeneity, reconstructing intercellular communication networks, and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Furthermore, we discuss current technical limitations and translational challenges, aiming to provide a theoretical foundation and future direction for translating mechanistic insights into precision medicine for ARDS.