Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with increased DKK1 expression and disturbances in the bone turnover regulating genes

Materials and methods RA patients submitted to hip replacement surgery were recruited. They were matched to a group of primary OP patients for bone mineral density and major clinical fracture risk factors (age, gender, BMI). Trabecular bone microarchitecture was assessed by micro-computed tomography and bone mechanical behavior by compression tests. Bone cell activity was analyzed by studying gene expression.