More specifically, we aimed to assess (1) expression of Dkk-1 and TGFβ in the skin and circulating levels in patients with SSc prior to and following B cell depletion therapy and (2) DKK1 gene expression in cultured fibroblasts obtained from patients with SSc prior to and following B cell depletion therapy. The gene discussed is TGFB1; the disease is systemic sclerosis.