The role of osteoprotegerin/RANKL/RANK axis in diabetes complications and coronary heart disease

Abstract

Osteoprotegerin and RANKL are cytokines belonging to the TNF family which regulate osteoclastogenesis and may play role in vascular calcification. Abnormalities in osteoprotegerin/RANKL/RANK system have been described in many diseases. Recent clinical studies suggest significant correlation between elevated serum OPG levels and coronary artery disease as well as cardiovascular mortality. Increased OPG levels were also observed in patients with diabetes and in subjects with diabetes and microangiopathy. Charcot arthropathy is characterized by the presence of osteopenia and vascular calcification. OPG and RANKL - as cytokines involved in both processes - may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of this complication