Secreted frizzled related protein 1 regulates Wnt signaling for BMP2 induced chondrocyte differentiation.

Canonical Wnt signaling (beta-catenin/TCF) has emerged as a key regulator of skeletogenesis. In this study, chondrogenesis is examined in a mouse model in which the Wnt antagonist secreted frizzled related protein 1 (sFRP1) is non-functional and results in a high bone mass phenotype and activation through the canonical pathway of the Runx2 transcription factor that is essential for bone formation. We find during the period of rapid post-natal growth, shortened height of the growth plate and increased calcification of the hypertrophic zone (HZ) in the sFRP1-/- mouse, indicating accelerated endochondral ossification.

Long-term follow-up of female patients with idiopathic scoliosis treated with the Wilmington orthosis.

Background: A spinal orthosis is commonly utilized in the nonoperative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term radiographic and functional outcomes of female patients with idiopathic scoliosis who had completed a program of treatment with the Wilmington thoracic-lumbar spinal orthosis.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records and radiographs of all female patients who had successfully completed a course of treatment with the orthosis between 1973 and 1983.