Understanding how serotonin affects spine shape and growth
Official title: Serotonergic control of spine morphology
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-11057992 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how serotonin affects the growth and shape of the spine in young people with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, using zebrafish to help find new ways to treat the condition beyond just surgery and braces.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $409,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD117423-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057992 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents, particularly girls, who are diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis or have a family history of spinal deformities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with scoliosis caused by known congenital malformations or other specific medical conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of serotonin in the development and maintenance of the spine, particularly focusing on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), a condition that causes the spine to curve during growth. By using zebrafish as a model organism, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind spine deformities and how serotonin influences spine morphology. The study will involve genetic modifications to observe the effects of serotonin on spine structure and function, providing insights that could lead to better treatment options for scoliosis. The goal is to move beyond corrective surgeries and braces by understanding the underlying biological processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, less invasive treatments for scoliosis that address the root causes of the condition.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of serotonin in spinal development, but this specific approach using zebrafish is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grimes, Daniel T — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Grimes, Daniel T
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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.