The genetic contribution to hip joint morphometry and relationship to hip cartilage thickness

A twin study approach was used to explore the genetic determinants of hip joint morphometry and their relationship to hip cartilage thickness. Our analysis used data on anthropometric characteristics and radiographic features of a group of 222 monozygotic (MZ) and 240 dizygotic (DZ) twins. We confirmed that genetic factors account for most of the variation in minimal joint space (MJS) and acetabular anatomy. This genetic variation was largely due to factors unique to MJS itself and not explained by arthropometric variables or measurements of acetabular morphology. Only a small proportion was shared with genetic factors underlying acetabular shape, mainly the centre edge angle. (C) 2001 OsteoArthritis Research Society International.