AAV6 as an effective gene delivery vector for prolonged transgene expression in intervertebral disc cells in vivo

Reviving Intervertebral Discs: Treating Degeneration Using Advanced Delivery Systems

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is commonly associated with many spinal problems, such as low back pain, and significantly impacts a patient's quality of life. However, current treatments for IVDD, which include conservative and surgical methods, are limited in their ability to fully address degeneration. To combat IVDD, delivery-system-based therapy has received extensive attention from researchers. These delivery systems can effectively deliver therapeutic agents for IVDD, overcoming the limitations of these agents, reducing leakage and increasing local concentration to inhibit IVDD or promote intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration. This review first briefly introduces the structure and function of the IVD, and the related pathophysiology of IVDD. Subsequently, the roles of drug-based and bioactive-substance-based delivery systems in IVDD are highlighted. The former includes natural source drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid medications, and other small molecular drugs. The latter includes chemokines, growth factors, interleukin, and platelet-rich plasma. Additionally, gene-based and cell-based delivery systems are briefly involved. Finally, the limitations and future development of the combination of therapeutic agents and delivery systems in the treatment of IVDD are discussed, providing insights for future research.

Tissue optical clearing and 3D imaging of virus infections

Imaging pathogens within 3D environment of biological tissues provides spatial information about their localization and interactions with the host. Technological advances in fluorescence microscopy and 3D image analysis now permit visualization and quantification of pathogens directly in large tissue volumes and in great detail. In recent years large volume imaging became an important tool in virology research helping to understand the properties of viruses and the host response to infection. In this chapter we give a review of fluorescence microscopy modalities and tissue optical clearing methods used for large volume tissue imaging. A summary of recent applications for virus research is provided with particular emphasis on studies using light sheet fluorescence microscopy. We describe the challenges and approaches for volumetric image analysis. Practical examples of volumetric imaging implemented in virology laboratories and addressing specialized research questions, such as virus tropism and immune host response are described. We conclude with an overview of the emerging technologies and their potential for virus research.

Application of single and cooperative different delivery systems for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is the most universal pathogenesis of low back pain (LBP), a prevalent and costly medical problem across the world. Persistent low back pain can seriously affect a patient's quality of life and even lead to disability. Furthermore, the corresponding medical expenses create a serious economic burden to both individuals and society. Intervertebral disc degeneration is commonly thought to be related to age, injury, obesity, genetic susceptibility, and other risk factors. Nonetheless, its specific pathological process has not been completely elucidated; the current mainstream view considers that this condition arises from the interaction of multiple mechanisms. With the development of medical concepts and technology, clinicians and scientists tend to intervene in the early or middle stages of intervertebral disc degeneration to avoid further aggravation. However, with the aid of modern delivery systems, it is now possible to intervene in the process of intervertebral disc at the cellular and molecular levels. This review aims to provide an overview of the main mechanisms associated with intervertebral disc degeneration and the delivery systems that can help us to improve the efficacy of intervertebral disc degeneration treatment.