New mechanisms may improve congenital spinal defect treatments

Researchers at Northwestern Medicine have discovered new mechanisms that regulate spinal column development during embryonic growth. This study, published in Nature Communications, could lead to better treatments for congenital scoliosis and similar birth defects. The team found that two proteins, DeltaC and DeltaD, play distinct roles in the segmentation of vertebral discs. DeltaC helps synchronize the process, while DeltaD boosts gene levels necessary for this synchronization. This contrasts with previous beliefs that only DeltaC was involved. These findings enhance the understanding of genetic mutations that cause spinal defects. The researchers plan to explore other genetic factors and signaling mechanisms in future studies.