Progress in the Understanding of the Genetic Etiology of Vertebral Segmentation Disorders in Humans
Vertebral malformations contribute substantially to the pathophysiology of kyphosis and scoliosis, common health problems associated with back and neck pain, disability, cosmetic disfigurement, and functional distress. This review explores (1) recent advances in the understanding of the molecular embryology underlying vertebral development and relevance to elucidation of etiologies of several known human vertebral malformation syndromes; (2) outcomes of molecular studies elucidating genetic contributions to congenital and sporadic vertebral malformation; and (3) complex interrelationships between genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the pathogenesis of isolated syndromic and nonsyndromic congenital vertebral malformation. Discussion includes exploration of the importance of establishing improved classification systems for vertebral malformation, future directions in molecular and genetic research approaches to vertebral malformation, and translational value of research efforts to clinical management and genetic counseling of affected individuals and their families.
congenital vertebral malformation spondylothoracic dysostosis agagille syndrome congenital scoliosis klippel?feil syndrome vacterl charge syndrome teratogens jarcho?levin syndrome icvas array-based cgh dll3 wnt3a t(brachyury) tbx6 slc35a3 mesp2 lfng pax1 jag1 notch2 chd7