A cohort study of the effects of serum osteoprotegerin and osteoprotegerin gene polymorphisms on cardiovascular mortality in elderly women

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) and OPG gene polymorphisms in relation to cardiovascular (CV) and all-cause mortality in elderly women. BACKGROUND: The OPG/RANK/RANKL plays a vital role in bone cell biology. It has also been detected in myocardial tissue and atherosclerotic plaques. In some population studies, OPG and OPG gene polymorphisms have been associated with CV disease risk. DESIGN, MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS: In an 8.5-year cohort population study of 1333 postmenopausal women mean age 75.2 ± 2.7 years, serum OPG concentrations above the median were associated with an increased risk of all-cause [odds ratio (OR) 1.39 (1.04-1.85)], and in particular CV ..