Effect of Asymmetric Tension on Biomechanics and Metabolism of Vertebral Epiphyseal Plate in a Rodent Model of Scoliosis

Objective To investigate the effect of asymmetric tension on idiopathic scoliosis ( IS ) and to understand its pathogenic mechanism. Methods The rodent model of scoliosis was established using Sprague–Dawley rats with left rib‐tethering from T 6 to T 12 , tail and shoulder amputation, and high‐cage feeding. Vertebrae epiphyseal cartilage plates were harvested from the convex and concave sides. To analyze differences on the convex and concave sides, finite element analysis was carried out to determine the mechanical stress. Protein expression on epiphyseal cartilage was evaluated by western blot. Micro‐ CT was taken to evaluate the bone quality of vertebral on both sides. Results Scoliosis curves presented in X ‐ray radiographs of the rats. Finite element analysis was carried out on the axial and transverse tension of the spine. Stresses of the convex side were −170.14, −373.18, and −3832.32 MPa ( X , Y , and Z axis, respectively), while the concave side showed stresses of 361.99, 605.55, and 3661.95 MPa. Collagen type II , collagen type X , S ox 9, R un X 2, VEGF , and aggrecan were expressed significantly more on the convex side ( P  < 0.05). There was asymmetric expression of protein on the epiphyseal cartilage plate at molecular level. Compared with the convex side, the concave side had significantly lower value in the BV / TV and Tb.N , but higher value in the Tb.Sp ( P  < 0.05). There was asymmetry of bone quality in micro‐architecture. Conclusions In this study, asymmetric tension contributed to asymmetry in protein expression and bone quality on vertebral epiphyseal plates, ultimately resulting in asymmetry of anatomy. In addition, asymmetry of anatomy aggravated asymmetric tension. It is the first study to show that there is an asymmetrical vicious circle in IS .