Bone morphogenetic proteins and Dickkopf-1 in ankylosing spondylitis

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the axial skeleton.
• Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying AS pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective biomarkers and treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the serum levels of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and Dickkopf homologue-1 (Dkk-1) in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
• To explore the correlation between these protein levels and disease activity, functional status, and radiological progression in AS.

Main Methods:

• Serum samples were collected from 72 AS patients and 30 healthy controls.
• Levels of various BMPs and Dkk-1 were quantified.
• Clinical data, including disease activity, functional indices, and radiographic scores (e.g., BASRI), were assessed using questionnaires and imaging.

Main Results:

• AS patients exhibited higher BMP levels and significantly lower Dkk-1 levels compared to controls.
• Dkk-1 levels were higher in AS patients regularly using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Serum BMP-7 and the BMP-7/Dkk-1 ratio correlated with sacroiliitis severity, overall radiographic damage (BASRI-total), and disease duration. BMP-2/Dkk-1 and serum BMP-2 showed potential as predictors of disease activity and functional status.

Conclusions:

• BMPs and BMPs/Dkk-1 ratios are significantly associated with disease activity, radiological findings, and functional indices in AS.
• Lower Dkk-1 levels in AS patients suggest a potential role in disease pathogenesis.
• BMPs and Dkk-1 may serve as valuable biomarkers for AS severity and predictors of treatment outcomes, warranting further investigation.