Scientists at Harvard Medical School have identified about 150 genes responsible for the shape and size of cartilage that can control a person’s height. The research was published in the journal Cell Genomics.
The cells that make up the cartilage at the ends of child and adolescent bones determine their future length and shape, which in turn affects growth. These cartilage cells, known as chondrocytes, proliferate and mature in areas of tissue called growth plates, which are located at the ends of long bones in children and adolescents and determine the future length and shape of each bone. When a person’s growth is complete, these cartilaginous growth plates “close” and are replaced by hard bone.
The scientists analyzed 600 million mouse cartilage cells to find genes that affect cell growth and maturation. They then turned off each candidate gene in turn. As a result, the researchers identified 145 genes that, when turned off, cause abnormal growth and development of mouse cartilage cells. These ailments resembled changes in certain diseases of the skeleton. For example, with skeletal dysplasia. People with this diagnosis often have short stature and short limbs, among other symptoms.
The authors noted that the results obtained in mouse cells may not reflect cellular processes in humans. However, the researchers believe that the growth genes identified will help patients with skeletal dysplasia and other skeletal diseases in the future.