DKK1 and melanoma: To further validate changes in osteocyte function following melanoma metastasis, we quantified osteocyte marker genes, namely Dmp1 (dentin matrix acidic phosphoprotein), Dkk1 (Dickkopf WNT Signaling Pathway Inhibitor 1), Phex (phosphate-regulating endopeptidase homolog X-linked), Sclerostin, Col1a1 (type I collagen), and Runx2 (Runt-related transcription factor 2), which were all decreased in the melanoma metastasis group (Fig. 1c), supporting the reduction in trabecular and cortical bone volume that occurs as a result of melanoma bone metastasis.