Scoliosis and Spinal Disorders: Molecular Biomarkers and Therapeutic Strategies

Dear Colleagues,

Recent research has unveiled significant findings regarding intracellular signaling events during Scoliotic and Spinal deformities’ development and progression in several pathologies. Current studies focus on the microscopic and macroscopic examination of the contribution of several molecules, such as cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, protein receptors and hormones, in intracellular signal transduction cascades. They aim to reveal potential therapeutic targets for the prevention and management of Scoliotic and Spinal disorders, along with biomarker indices to characterize the disease severity and effectiveness of the applied treatment. Nevertheless, the complexity of the molecular processes involved in Scoliotic and Spinal deformities’ pathogenesis and progression means that they remain little understood.

This Special Issue of CIMB aims to provide preclinical and clinical evidence on the pathophysiology of Spinal diseases and demonstrate potential therapeutic or diagnostic applications based on recent experimental advancements. Original research and review articles will be considered if they clearly add value to the available body of literature. These articles’ thematic scope should comprise the clinical, diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic aspects of these disorders and their molecular background.

The topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• In vitro experimental discoveries regarding the molecular signaling in Scoliosis and other Spinal deformities;
• The results from in vivo and animal model experiments investigating the functional role of intracellular molecules;
• Examinations of the expression of cytokines or growth factors that may be used as biomarkers for prognostic or diagnostic purposes;
• Studies that investigate the relationship between Spinal deformities’ clinical characteristics and specific biochemical pathways;
• Potential target therapies for the management of Scoliosis and Spinal malformations;
• The metabolic basis of Scoliosis progression.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Angelos Kaspiris
Guest Editor

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