Abstract: Tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) is one of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily cytokines and it activates fibroblast growth factor inducible 14 (Fn14). The activation of TWEAK/Fn14 signals modulates cell proliferation or differentiation, and enhances fibrosis, angiogenesis and inflammation. Fn14 signaling plays an important role in the pathogenesis of a variety of skin disorders including lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, and skin tumors. Serum or urinary TWEAK increases in certain patients and has the potential to be a biomarker for early diagnosis and assessment of disease activity. Moderate activation of TWEAK/Fn14 signals can promote skin wound healing. However, excessive and prolonged activation of TWEAK/Fn14 signals may lead to various pathological reactions. Therefore, activation or inhibition of any link of TWEAK/Fn14 may be a novel approach for treating skin diseases. This review summarizes the role of TWEAK/Fn14 signals in the pathogenesis of skin diseases as well as the potential strategies for relevant diagnosis and therapies.

Key words: TWEKA, Fn14, skin disease, diagnosis, therapy