Scoliosis & Spine

Scoliosis Genetic Research

In 2007, TSRHC researchers identified the first gene - CHD7 – associated with idiopathic scoliosis, the most common spinal deformity in children. The medical breakthrough was a result of a 10-year
study, led by Carol Wise, Ph.D., conducted
at the Sarah M. and Charles E. Seay/Martha and Pat Beard Center for Excellence in Spine Research.

The gene discovery will allow the medical community to form hypotheses to explain what causes the condition and provide tools for future research. Read more about scoliosis and the gene discovery. In 2011, they identified two additional genes – CHL1 and DSCAM – that give new insight into the condition. These gene discoveries lay the groundwork for future research and may lead to improved prevention and treatment methods.

This research was funded through generous contributions from: Fondation Yves Cotrel pour la Recherche en Pathologie Rachidienne de l'Institut de France and the Scoliosis Research Society.

This research was funded through a grant from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (Grant R01 HD052973). The hospital’s work is also made possible through the establishment of the Pediatric Molecular Genetics Research Laboratory at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, which was funded by: The Crystal Charity Ball 1997; Beneke Companies; Horace C. Cabe Foundation; The Cain Foundation, in honor of Effie Marie Cain; The Florence Foundation; The Hillcrest Foundation, founded by Mrs. W. W. Caruth, Sr.; Hoblitzelle Foundation; The Hoglund Foundation; Kimberly Clark Corporation; Rauscher Pierce Refsnes; Mr. and Mrs. Jack Reynolds; The Harold Simmons Foundation; Mr. and Mrs. Douglas McWilliams Smith; The Roy and Christine Sturgis Charitable and Educational Trust; USLIFE Companies; and Mr. and Mrs. Terry Worrell.