Understanding how a protein affects spine development and health
TGFbeta in the pathology and development of the spine
This research explores how a specific protein family, called TGFbeta, helps build and maintain a healthy spine.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11097269 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on special signals to build and maintain a strong, healthy spine. This project focuses on a group of proteins called TGFbeta, which are known to be important for bone and tissue health. We are learning how these proteins guide the formation of important spine structures like discs and ligaments during development. We also want to understand how TGFbeta helps keep these tissues healthy throughout life, as changes in these proteins can lead to spine problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but future applications could benefit individuals with spinal conditions related to disc, ligament, or tendon issues.
Not a fit: Patients whose spine conditions are unrelated to the TGFbeta signaling pathway or fibrous tissue development may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to regenerate or engineer spinal tissues, offering hope for people with spine conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory findings and studies using genetically engineered mice have shown the importance of TGFbeta in spinal tissue development and maintenance, providing a foundation for this work.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Serra, Rosa a. — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Serra, Rosa a.
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.