Understanding Genetic Factors in Adolescent Scoliosis
Non-coding/epigenetic regulation
This research aims to uncover the genetic and regulatory causes of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, a common spinal curvature condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121833 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects many young people, but its exact causes are still a mystery. While some genetic changes linked to other forms of scoliosis have been found, the reasons behind isolated AIS are less clear. This project looks at specific areas of our DNA that don't code for proteins but help control how genes work, called enhancers. By studying these regions and a gene called PAX1, which is important for spinal development, researchers hope to find out how these genetic factors contribute to AIS, especially since early findings suggest a stronger link in females.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, especially those with no other associated symptoms, may find this research particularly relevant to their condition.
Not a fit: Patients with scoliosis caused by known genetic syndromes or other underlying conditions may not directly benefit from this specific focus on idiopathic scoliosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of why adolescent idiopathic scoliosis develops, potentially paving the way for new ways to identify those at risk or develop targeted treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genome-wide association studies have identified genetic regions linked to AIS, and preliminary results from this team show promising connections between specific genetic elements and spinal development.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ahituv, Nadav — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ahituv, Nadav
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 below.