Understanding Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis and Spine Development

Forward and Reverse Genetic Studies of AIS and Spine Development in Zebrafish

['FUNDING_P01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11121822

This research explores the genetic causes of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, a common spine condition, to help us better understand why it happens.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_P01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11121822 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common spine condition in children, often requiring bracing or surgery in severe cases. We are working to uncover the genetic reasons behind AIS by studying spine development in zebrafish, a small fish model. Our team has already identified several genes linked to spine issues in zebrafish, and we are continuing to look for more. This work helps us understand how genes affect spine health and what goes wrong in AIS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational genetic research is relevant for children and adolescents affected by idiopathic scoliosis, as it aims to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms of their condition.

Not a fit: Patients not affected by adolescent idiopathic scoliosis or related spine development disorders would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of the genetic causes of scoliosis, potentially paving the way for new ways to prevent or treat the condition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this collaborative team has already identified numerous genes involved in spine development and scoliosis using similar genetic approaches in zebrafish.

Where this research is happening

DALLAS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.