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Presynaptic Terminal Alterations in Concave and Convex Spinalis Muscles: A Pilot Exploratory Study in Advanced
Sebastian L Schubert1, Xiaoying Chen2, Zhanyang Liang2
1Clinic for Orthopedics, Trauma, and Reconstructive Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Spinal deformities like scoliosis can damage neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) in concave muscles. This study found fewer presynaptic terminals (PTs) and altered protein expression, suggesting muscle compression contributes to NMJ dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Neuromuscular biology
- Spinal cord research
- Skeletal muscle physiology
Background:
- Presynaptic terminals (PTs) at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) are critical for muscle function.
- Scoliosis causes spinal asymmetry and muscle development differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare PT adaptations in spinalis muscles from concave and convex spinal regions in scoliosis patients.
- To investigate potential links between muscle compression and NMJ alterations.
Main Methods:
- Immunofluorescence (IF) analysis of PTs in spinalis muscle samples.
- Histological assessment of muscle fibers.
- Expression analysis of inflammatory and neurotrophic proteins.
Main Results:
- Concave spinalis muscles showed reduced PT numbers and decreased expression of neurofilament M and synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2.
- Increased expression of IFN alpha was observed in concave muscles.
- Significant differences in PT parameters were found between concave and convex sides.
Conclusions:
- Continuous compression in concave spinal regions may lead to PT alterations and denervation.
- IFN alpha may play a role in NMJ disorders associated with spinal deformities.
- Further multicenter studies are needed to validate these findings.
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