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Page: << Prev | 1 | 2 The finding may also help in the choice of prosthetic materials -- metal on polyethylene, metal on metal or ceramic on ceramic, Gonzalez said. "It may also allow us to proactively intervene pharmacologically to treat at-risk patients," he added.
In the study, the researchers analyzed genetic variations in 312 people who underwent hip replacement surgery. Among these patients, 162 had problems with their hip replacement during the 10 years after the procedure.
Ninety-one had early signs of aseptic loosening and 71 developed a deep-seated infection. This type of infections happens when the body can't fight infection from bacteria living within an artificial implant.
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To look for the genetic causes of these problems, the researchers took DNA samples from all the patients and tested for genetic variations in the MMP1 gene, the interleukin 6 gene, and the vitamin D receptor genes.
MMP1 is an enzyme that degrades collagen, a protein found in bone and cartilage. Interleukin 6 is a chemical associated with bone metabolism and the immune response, and vitamin D synthesis is needed for strong healthy bones.
Malik's group found that variations in the interleukin 6 gene did not have any effect. However, patients with variations in MMP1 were more than three times more likely to have aseptic loosening. Moreover, variations in the vitamin D receptor gene increased the chances of bone dissolution and deep infection.
"The findings of this study are consistent with and supportive of our present clinical observations," Chmell said.
If the findings are confirmed, they could be used to predict long-term success of hip replacement surgery. They could also be used to develop new targeted genetic treatments, Malik's team concluded.
More information
For more on hip replacement, visit the U.S. National Institutes of Health.
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