Researchers caused scoliosis in zebrafish by mutating the cilia gene, c21orf59. The mutant c21orf59 gene may be turned on and off based on temperature.
Science published the study.
Here are six takeaways:
1. Mutated genes cause irregular fluid flow through the spinal column, resulting in scoliosis.
2. The study revealed spinal curve development occurs most significantly during rapid growth in adolescence.
3. Researchers found when they repaired the mutated cilia genes, fluid flow returned to normal and the spinal curves corrected.
4. The study unveiled a biological mechanism for idiopathic scoliosis.
5. Researchers concluded severe idiopathic scoliosis may be treated without invasive surgery.
6. Further studies will seek to reveal how disrupted cerebrospinal fluid flow causes spinal curvature.
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