Researchers use spatial mapping technique to identify active genes in skeletal growth plates
Researchers at the Department of Women's and Children's Health have mapped active genes in human skeletal growth plates using spatial transcriptomics. Published in *Bone Research* in August 2026, the study reveals unexpected cellular heterogeneity in the growth plate's resting zone. It also identifies the SGMS2 gene's role in tissue mineralization within matrix vesicles, offering new clues into how bones elongate and why certain genetic mutations lead to rickets-like skeletal disorders.
Spatial transcriptomics in growth plates
▪The study mapping active genes in human skeletal growth plates was published in the journal Bone Research in August 2026.
▪Researchers at the Department of Women's and Children's Health used spatial transcriptomics to map active genes in rare human skeletal growth plate tissue samples.
Resting zone cellular heterogeneity
▪The observed cellular heterogeneity in the growth plate's resting zone suggests that the regulation of skeletal growth is more complex than previously appreciated.
▪Researchers identified new molecular and functional features of cellular quiescence in the growth plate's resting zone, showing that these stem-like cells differ from one another more than expected.
SGMS2 gene in mineralization
▪Mutations in the SGMS2 gene in humans are known to lead to a rickets-like disorder in which the skeleton fails to mineralize properly.
▪Researchers identified that the gene SGMS2 is expressed in the cartilage cells responsible for the mineralization of skeletal growth plate tissue.
Matrix vesicle mineral formation
▪The study showed that the protein produced by the SGMS2 gene is present within tiny structures called matrix vesicles in mice.
▪Pharmacological inhibition of the SGMS2 protein's activity within matrix vesicles impaired mineral formation in the experimental model.
Growth disorder genetic mechanisms
▪Confirming that well-established growth plate genes are active in human tissue strengthens decades of prior research conducted in model organisms and cell-based systems.
▪Discovering previously unreported active genes in human growth plates may help researchers uncover novel genetic causes of skeletal growth disorders.
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