Research Article Inter- Not Intraindividual Differences in sTWEAK Levels Predict Functional Deterioration and Mortality in Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy

which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Background. TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) has been reported to predict mortality in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. However, whether it can be used as a biomarker for disease monitoring or rather represents a risk factor for disease progression remains unclear. Aim of the Study. To evaluate the potential of sTWEAK as a biomarker in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. Results.We conducted a serial study of sTWEAK levels in 78 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. Soluble TWEAK levels predicted not only a combined mortality/heart transplantation endpoint after 4 years