Dickkopf(DKK) 1 is an important inhibitory factor of the wingless-type mice mammary tumour virus integration site family(WNT) signal transduction pathway. DKK1 binds to the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-5/6 of the WNT receptor to inhibit the signaling pathway. DKK1 is abnormally expressed in osteoporosis,rheumatoid arthritis, multiple myeloma, and periodontitis. DKK1 also plays a significant role in bone metabolism. This review summarizes the research progress on DKK1 and bone destructive diseases to help establish strategies that can inhibit bone destruction and repair bone defects. This review also provides a basis for the development of novel techniques to treat periodontitis and to promote periodontal bone regeneration.
