Notably, IL-6 was the only biomarker found to be associated with coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores.[29] Also, IL-6 greatly contributes to atherosclerosis progression predicting plaque growth in the carotid artery.[30] IL-6 was independently associated with the risk of cardiovascular death, major adverse cardiovascular events, MI, hospitalization due to heart failure, and all-cause mortality. The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is heart failure.