Tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) is a member of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) super family. Combining with its receptor Fn14,TWEAK can participate in the process of atherosclerosis (As) through several ways,including inducing inflammation,augmenting the expression of MMP9,promoting neovascularization and so on. TWEAK is involved in coronary heart disease and its equivalent-diabetes mellitus. Statins may play a potential role in the treatment of As by reducing TWEAK-Fn14 complex in blood.