Compared with DNR hearts, the level of PGC-1α protein was significantly lower in hearts of DCM (0.28 ± 0.05 vs. 0.91 ± 0.10; p < 0.05) and ICM (0.17 ± 0.03 vs. 0.91 ± 0.10; p < 0.05) etiology. The gene discussed is PPARGC1A; the disease is familial dilated cardiomyopathy.