Identification and Characterization of Circulating microRNAs as Diagnostic Biomarkers in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the expression of a wide range of microRNAs in the blood plasma of patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). These microRNAs have been previously studied in other orthopedic conditions and bone metabolism. The study aims to identify deregulated microRNAs in AIS patients, validate them, and explore their potential role in bone and cartilage tissue metabolism. The goal is to develop a microRNA panel to help diagnose and predict the progression of AIS based on molecular data. Participants will have a blood sample collected to separate plasma, from which circulating total RNA will be isolated. MicroRNA samples will be prepared and analyzed using micro-array techniques, followed by validation through single-qRT-PCR assays and computational analyses. Further in vitro studies will investigate how identified microRNAs influence bone remodeling processes. Healthy volunteers will also be recruited as controls to compare with AIS patients. During the study, clinical data from participants will be collected and matched with microRNA results. Blood samples and RNA will be securely stored at a dedicated center at -80°C. Researchers will measure microRNA profiles and expression levels within specified timeframes after blood sampling. Data confidentiality and participant anonymity will be strictly maintained. The study includes informed consent procedures and will follow ethical standards and good clinical practice guidelines throughout the research process.

Identification of Circulating microRNAs in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis