How low oxygen levels affect spine development and congenital scoliosis
Official title: Hypoxia and mitochondria in spine development and congenital scoliosis
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11058501 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how low oxygen levels during pregnancy might affect spine development and lead to scoliosis, using special mice to learn more about the underlying causes, which could help find new ways to treat these conditions in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $349,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD112003-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058501 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital scoliosis or related spine malformations, particularly those with a family history of these conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acquired scoliosis or spine issues unrelated to congenital factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of low oxygen levels during embryonic development on the formation of the spine and the occurrence of congenital scoliosis. It focuses on how disruptions in key signaling pathways, particularly the Notch signaling pathway, can lead to abnormal spine development and malformations. By using genetically modified mice, the study aims to understand the role of specific transcription factors in this process. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the causes of congenital spine defects and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for congenital scoliosis and related spine malformations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding genetic and environmental factors in embryonic development can lead to significant advancements in treating congenital defects, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schipani, Ernestina — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Schipani, Ernestina
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This research looks at how low oxygen and mitochondrial changes during pregnancy can disrupt early spine formation and lead to congenital scoliosis.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.