DKK1 and Insulin resistance: Because insulin resistance is associated with PI3K–AKT-FOXO1 axis (Tilg & Moschen, 2008; Zhang et al, 2012), the phosphorylated AKT and FOXO1 were examined, and it was found that DKK1 decreased phosphorylation of AKT (Ser473) and FOXO1 (Fig 6D).