The present invention relates to compounds, in particular peptides which are capable of stabilizing barrier functions of epithelium and endothelium. The peptides and other compounds of the present invention are useful in the treatment and prevention of diseases or disorders associated with a localized or systemic breakdown of epithelial and endothelial barrier functions. Particular diseases and disorders to be treated and/or prevented with the peptides or other compounds, methods and uses provided herein are burns, acute lung injury (ALI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), ventilator induced lung injury (VILI), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), acute kidney injury (AKI), sepsis, multiorgan dysfunction syndrome (MODS), or edema.