Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 13: SMVDU faculty contributed in an international multi-institutional research project that identified a new susceptibility gene for a spinal disorder.
An international research team from multiple institutions has identified a new susceptibility gene associated with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (also called AIS) across Asian and Caucasian populations. The gene ‘GPR126’ is involved in the growth and development of the spine during childhood. This study is published on May 12, 2013 in the top most scientific journal of genetics, Nature Genetics.
The research team was mainly comprised of scientists from Japan, China and USA. Dr Swarkar Sharma, Assistant Professor, School of Biology and Chemistry, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, J&K, India, was among the researchers who contributed in the study and is a co-author in the scientific paper.
AIS is the most common skeletal deformity, affecting approximately 2-3% of school-age children worldwide. In it, the patient suffers from curving of the spine in ‘S’ shape from side to side, instead of a straight spine. This affects the posture of the body, gait and may compromise the functions of various organs in body. The causes of scoliosis remain largely unknown and surgery or braces are the only treatment options, known so far. However, recent clinical and genetic studies suggest contribution of genetic factors.
Dr Swarkar was also part of a research team that had earlier reported the first gene ‘CHL1’ associated with AIS by Genome wide Association studies.
It is anticipated that such studies of the kind will aid in proper understanding of various disorders and open new gateways to their treatments.
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