1
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Tang SN, Salazar-Puerta AI, Heimann MK, Kuchynsky K, Rincon-Benavides MA, Kordowski M, Gunsch G, Bodine L, Diop K, Gantt C, Khan S, Bratasz A, Kokiko-Cochran O, Fitzgerald J, Laudier DM, Hoyland JA, Walter BA, Higuita-Castro N, Purmessur D. Engineered extracellular vesicle-based gene therapy for the treatment of discogenic back pain. Biomaterials 2024; 308:122562. [PMID: 38583365 PMCID: PMC11164054 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Painful musculoskeletal disorders such as intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration associated with chronic low back pain (termed "Discogenic back pain", DBP), are a significant socio-economic burden worldwide and contribute to the growing opioid crisis. Yet there are very few if any successful interventions that can restore the tissue's structure and function while also addressing the symptomatic pain. Here we have developed a novel non-viral gene therapy, using engineered extracellular vesicles (eEVs) to deliver the developmental transcription factor FOXF1 to the degenerated IVD in an in vivo model. Injured IVDs treated with eEVs loaded with FOXF1 demonstrated robust sex-specific reductions in pain behaviors compared to control groups. Furthermore, significant restoration of IVD structure and function in animals treated with FOXF1 eEVs were observed, with significant increases in disc height, tissue hydration, proteoglycan content, and mechanical properties. This is the first study to successfully restore tissue function while modulating pain behaviors in an animal model of DBP using eEV-based non-viral delivery of transcription factor genes. Such a strategy can be readily translated to other painful musculoskeletal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley N Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Ana I Salazar-Puerta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Mary K Heimann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Kyle Kuchynsky
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | | | - Mia Kordowski
- Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Gilian Gunsch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Lucy Bodine
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Khady Diop
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Connor Gantt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Safdar Khan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, USA
| | - Anna Bratasz
- Small Animal Imaging Center Shared Resources, Wexner Medical Center, USA
| | - Olga Kokiko-Cochran
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Julie Fitzgerald
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Damien M Laudier
- Leni and Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, USA
| | - Judith A Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Benjamin A Walter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA; Department of Orthopedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, USA
| | - Natalia Higuita-Castro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA; Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, The Ohio State University, USA; Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, USA.
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA; Department of Orthopedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, USA.
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2
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Penolazzi L, Chierici A, Notarangelo MP, Dallan B, Lisignoli G, Lambertini E, Greco P, Piva R, Nastruzzi C. Wharton's jelly-derived multifunctional hydrogels: New tools to promote intervertebral disc regeneration in vitro and ex vivo. J Biomed Mater Res A 2024; 112:973-987. [PMID: 38308554 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
The degeneration of intervertebral disc (IVD) is a disease of the entire joint between two vertebrae in the spine caused by loss of extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity, to date with no cure. The various regenerative approaches proposed so far have led to very limited successes. An emerging opportunity arises from the use of decellularized ECM as a scaffolding material that, directly or in combination with other materials, has greatly facilitated the advancement of tissue engineering. Here we focused on the decellularized matrix obtained from human umbilical cord Wharton's jelly (DWJ) which retains several structural and bioactive molecules very similar to those of the IVD ECM. However, being a viscous gel, DWJ has limited ability to retain ordered structural features when considered as architecture scaffold. To overcome this limitation, we produced DWJ-based multifunctional hydrogels, in the form of 3D millicylinders containing different percentages of alginate, a seaweed-derived polysaccharide, and gelatin, denatured collagen, which may impart mechanical integrity to the biologically active DWJ. The developed protocol, based on a freezing step, leads to the consolidation of the entire polymeric dispersion mixture, followed by an ionic gelation step and a freeze-drying process. Finally, a porous, stable, easily storable, and suitable matrix for ex vivo experiments was obtained. The properties of the millicylinders (Wharton's jelly millicylinders [WJMs]) were then tested in culture of degenerated IVD cells isolated from disc tissues of patients undergoing surgical discectomy. We found that WJMs with the highest percentage of DWJ were effective in supporting cell migration, restoration of the IVD phenotype (increased expression of Collagen type 2, aggrecan, Sox9 and FOXO3a), anti-inflammatory action, and stem cell activity of resident progenitor/notochordal cells (increased number of CD24 positive cells). We are confident that the DWJ-based formulations proposed here can provide adequate stimuli to the cells present in the degenerated IVD to restart the anabolic machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Penolazzi
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Chierici
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Dallan
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gina Lisignoli
- Laboratorio di Immunoreumatologia e Rigenerazione Tissutale, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Lambertini
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pantaleo Greco
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Piva
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudio Nastruzzi
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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3
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Ferreira JR, Caldeira J, Sousa M, Barbosa MA, Lamghari M, Almeida-Porada G, Gonçalves RM. Dynamics of CD44 + bovine nucleus pulposus cells with inflammation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9156. [PMID: 38644369 PMCID: PMC11033282 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59504-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral Disc (IVD) degeneration has been associated with a chronic inflammatory response, but knowledge on the contribution of distinct IVD cells, namely CD44, to the progression of IVD degeneration remains elusive. Here, bovine nucleus pulposus (NP) CD44 cells were sorted and compared by gene expression and proteomics with the negative counterpart. NP cells were then stimulated with IL-1b (10 ng/ml) and dynamics of CD44 gene and protein expression was analyzed upon pro-inflammatory treatment. The results emphasize that CD44 has a multidimensional functional role in IVD metabolism, ECM synthesis and production of neuropermissive factors. CD44 widespread expression in NP was partially associated with CD14 and CD45, resulting in the identification of distinct cell subsets. In conclusion, this study points out CD44 and CD44-based cell subsets as relevant targets in the modulation of the IVD pro-inflammatory/degenerative cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Ferreira
- I3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cell & Gene Therapy Safety, Clinical Pharmacology & Safety Science, R&D, AstraZeneca, Molndal, Sweden
| | - J Caldeira
- I3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Sousa
- I3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M A Barbosa
- I3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Lamghari
- I3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - G Almeida-Porada
- WFIRM-Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - R M Gonçalves
- I3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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4
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Warin J, Vedrenne N, Tam V, Zhu M, Yin D, Lin X, Guidoux-D’halluin B, Humeau A, Roseiro L, Paillat L, Chédeville C, Chariau C, Riemers F, Templin M, Guicheux J, Tryfonidou MA, Ho JW, David L, Chan D, Camus A. In vitro and in vivo models define a molecular signature reference for human embryonic notochordal cells. iScience 2024; 27:109018. [PMID: 38357665 PMCID: PMC10865399 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the emergence of human notochordal cells (NC) is essential for the development of regenerative approaches. We present a comprehensive investigation into the specification and generation of bona fide NC using a straightforward pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-based system benchmarked with human fetal notochord. By integrating in vitro and in vivo transcriptomic data at single-cell resolution, we establish an extended molecular signature and overcome the limitations associated with studying human notochordal lineage at early developmental stages. We show that TGF-β inhibition enhances the yield and homogeneity of notochordal lineage commitment in vitro. Furthermore, this study characterizes regulators of cell-fate decision and matrisome enriched in the notochordal niche. Importantly, we identify specific cell-surface markers opening avenues for differentiation refinement, NC purification, and functional studies. Altogether, this study provides a human notochord transcriptomic reference that will serve as a resource for notochord identification in human systems, diseased-tissues modeling, and facilitating future biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Warin
- Nantes Université, Oniris, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, RMeS, UMR 1229, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Nicolas Vedrenne
- Nantes Université, Oniris, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, RMeS, UMR 1229, 44000 Nantes, France
- Inserm, Univ. Limoges, Pharmacology & Transplantation, U1248, CHU Limoges, Service de Pharmacologie, toxicologie et pharmacovigilance, FHU SUPORT, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Vivian Tam
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mengxia Zhu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Danqing Yin
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health Limited (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xinyi Lin
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health Limited (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Bluwen Guidoux-D’halluin
- Nantes Université, Oniris, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, RMeS, UMR 1229, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Antoine Humeau
- Inserm, Univ. Limoges, Pharmacology & Transplantation, U1248, CHU Limoges, Service de Pharmacologie, toxicologie et pharmacovigilance, FHU SUPORT, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Luce Roseiro
- Nantes Université, Oniris, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, RMeS, UMR 1229, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Lily Paillat
- Nantes Université, Oniris, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, RMeS, UMR 1229, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Claire Chédeville
- Nantes Université, Oniris, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, RMeS, UMR 1229, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Caroline Chariau
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, CNRS, BioCore, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Frank Riemers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Markus Templin
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, Markwiesenstraße 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Jérôme Guicheux
- Nantes Université, Oniris, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, RMeS, UMR 1229, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joshua W.K. Ho
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health Limited (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Laurent David
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, CNRS, BioCore, 44000 Nantes, France
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, CR2TI, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Danny Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Anne Camus
- Nantes Université, Oniris, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, RMeS, UMR 1229, 44000 Nantes, France
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5
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Li Y, Zhang H, Zhu D, Yang F, Wang Z, Wei Z, Yang Z, Jia J, Kang X. Notochordal cells: A potential therapeutic option for intervertebral disc degeneration. Cell Prolif 2024; 57:e13541. [PMID: 37697480 PMCID: PMC10849793 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a prevalent musculoskeletal degenerative disorder worldwide, and ~40% of chronic low back pain cases are associated with IDD. Although the pathogenesis of IDD remains unclear, the reduction in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) and degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) are critical factors contributing to IDD. Notochordal cells (NCs), derived from the notochord, which rapidly degrades after birth and is eventually replaced by NPCs, play a crucial role in maintaining ECM homeostasis and preventing NPCs apoptosis. Current treatments for IDD only provide symptomatic relief, while lacking the ability to inhibit or reverse its progression. However, NCs and their secretions possess anti-inflammatory properties and promote NPCs proliferation, leading to ECM formation. Therefore, in recent years, NCs therapy targeting the underlying cause of IDD has emerged as a novel treatment strategy. This article provides a comprehensive review of the latest research progress on NCs for IDD, covering their biological characteristics, specific markers, possible mechanisms involved in IDD and therapeutic effects. It also highlights significant future directions in this field to facilitate further exploration of the pathogenesis of IDD and the development of new therapies based on NCs strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhu Li
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Haijun Zhang
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- The Second People's Hospital of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Daxue Zhu
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Fengguang Yang
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoheng Wang
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ziyan Wei
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Zhili Yang
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Jingwen Jia
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xuewen Kang
- Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu ProvinceLanzhouPeople's Republic of China
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6
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Lu J, Tian Z, Shofer FS, Yao L, Sandroni AZ, Sun H, Qin L, Zhang Y. Tnfa , Il6 , Cxcl1 , and Adam8 Genes Are the Early Markers After Mouse Tail Intervertebral Disc Injury. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 102:1063-1069. [PMID: 37208807 PMCID: PMC10618411 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000002278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The early molecular events after intervertebral disc injury remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to compare inflammatory markers from 1 day to 4 wks after injury to have a comprehensive understanding of the intervertebral disc response to injury. DESIGN Mouse tail intervertebral disc injury was induced by a needle puncture. Inflammatory marker gene expression and morphological changes were recorded at 1 day, 1 wk, and 4 wks after injury. RESULTS Tnfa , Il6 , and Cxcl1 gene expression peaked at day 1 post-needle puncture of the mouse intervertebral disc, Adam8 gene expression peaked at 1-wk time point, while Tipe2 gene expression was upregulated at week 4 postinjury. F4/80 positive cells, likely to be macrophages, are present as early as day 1 in the injured intervertebral discs and consistently present at week 4 postinjury. Loss of Safranin O staining and increased histological scores of the injured intervertebral discs are consistent with progressive degeneration after injury. CONCLUSIONS Inflammatory cytokines including Tnfa precede Tipe2 , suggesting that Tipe2 is likely induced by Tnfa . Upregulation of Adam8 and Cxcl1 gene expression persisted at week 4, suggesting that they play a role in the transition to chronic phase of intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Lu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
- Department of Spine Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 150 Jimo Rd, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Zuozhen Tian
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Frances S. Shofer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Lutian Yao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Alec Z. Sandroni
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Honghong Sun
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Ling Qin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Yejia Zhang
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
- Section of Rehabilitation Medicine, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA
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7
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Kemmler CL, Smolikova J, Moran HR, Mannion BJ, Knapp D, Lim F, Czarkwiani A, Hermosilla Aguayo V, Rapp V, Fitch OE, Bötschi S, Selleri L, Farley E, Braasch I, Yun M, Visel A, Osterwalder M, Mosimann C, Kozmik Z, Burger A. Conserved enhancers control notochord expression of vertebrate Brachyury. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6594. [PMID: 37852970 PMCID: PMC10584899 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42151-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The cell type-specific expression of key transcription factors is central to development and disease. Brachyury/T/TBXT is a major transcription factor for gastrulation, tailbud patterning, and notochord formation; however, how its expression is controlled in the mammalian notochord has remained elusive. Here, we identify the complement of notochord-specific enhancers in the mammalian Brachyury/T/TBXT gene. Using transgenic assays in zebrafish, axolotl, and mouse, we discover three conserved Brachyury-controlling notochord enhancers, T3, C, and I, in human, mouse, and marsupial genomes. Acting as Brachyury-responsive, auto-regulatory shadow enhancers, in cis deletion of all three enhancers in mouse abolishes Brachyury/T/Tbxt expression selectively in the notochord, causing specific trunk and neural tube defects without gastrulation or tailbud defects. The three Brachyury-driving notochord enhancers are conserved beyond mammals in the brachyury/tbxtb loci of fishes, dating their origin to the last common ancestor of jawed vertebrates. Our data define the vertebrate enhancers for Brachyury/T/TBXTB notochord expression through an auto-regulatory mechanism that conveys robustness and adaptability as ancient basis for axis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassie L Kemmler
- Section of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jana Smolikova
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, v. v. i., Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hannah R Moran
- Section of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brandon J Mannion
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Comparative Biochemistry Program, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Dunja Knapp
- Technische Universität Dresden, CRTD Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Fabian Lim
- Department of Medicine, Health Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Anna Czarkwiani
- Technische Universität Dresden, CRTD Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Viviana Hermosilla Aguayo
- Program in Craniofacial Biology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Orofacial Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vincent Rapp
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Olivia E Fitch
- Department of Integrative Biology and Ecology, Evolution and Behavior Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Seraina Bötschi
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Licia Selleri
- Program in Craniofacial Biology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Orofacial Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Emma Farley
- Department of Medicine, Health Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ingo Braasch
- Department of Integrative Biology and Ecology, Evolution and Behavior Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Maximina Yun
- Technische Universität Dresden, CRTD Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Axel Visel
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
- US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
- School of Natural Sciences, University of California Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Marco Osterwalder
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiology, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christian Mosimann
- Section of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Zbynek Kozmik
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, v. v. i., Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Alexa Burger
- Section of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
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8
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Xu H, Li J, Fei Q, Jiang L. Contribution of immune cells to intervertebral disc degeneration and the potential of immunotherapy. Connect Tissue Res 2023; 64:413-427. [PMID: 37161923 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2023.2212051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Substantial evidence supports that chronic low back pain is associated with intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), which is accompanied by decreased cell activity and matrix degradation. The role of immune cells, especially macrophages, in a variety of diseases has been extensively studied; therefore, their role in IDD has naturally attracted widespread scholarly interest. The IVD is considered to be an immunologically-privileged site given the presence of physical and biological barriers that include an avascular microenvironment, a high proteoglycan concentration, high physical pressure, the presence of apoptosis inducers such as Fas ligand, and the presence of notochordal cells. However, during IDD, immune cells with distinct characteristics appear in the IVD. Some of these immune cells release factors that promote the inflammatory response and angiogenesis in the disc and are, therefore, important drivers of IDD. Although some studies have elucidated the role of immune cells, no specific strategies related to systemic immunotherapy have been proposed. Herein, we summarize current knowledge of the presence and role of immune cells in IDD and consider that immunotherapy targeting immune cells may be a novel strategy for alleviating IDD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Xu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinming Fei
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Libo Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
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9
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Dudek M, Morris H, Rogers N, Pathiranage DR, Raj SS, Chan D, Kadler KE, Hoyland J, Meng QJ. The clock transcription factor BMAL1 is a key regulator of extracellular matrix homeostasis and cell fate in the intervertebral disc. Matrix Biol 2023; 122:1-9. [PMID: 37495193 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The circadian clock in mammals temporally coordinates physiological and behavioural processes to anticipate daily rhythmic changes in their environment. Chronic disruption to circadian rhythms (e.g., through ageing or shift work) is thought to contribute to a multitude of diseases, including degeneration of the musculoskeletal system. The intervertebral disc (IVD) in the spine contains circadian clocks which control ∼6% of the transcriptome in a rhythmic manner, including key genes involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. However, it remains largely unknown to what extent the local IVD molecular clock is required to drive rhythmic gene transcription and IVD physiology. In this work, we identified profound age-related changes of ECM microarchitecture and an endochondral ossification-like phenotype in the annulus fibrosus (AF) region of the IVD in the Col2a1-Bmal1 knockout mice. Circadian time series RNA-Seq of the whole IVD in Bmal1 knockout revealed loss of circadian patterns in gene expression, with an unexpected emergence of 12 h ultradian rhythms, including FOXO transcription factors. Further RNA sequencing of the AF tissue identified region-specific changes in gene expression, evidencing a loss of AF phenotype markers and a dysregulation of ECM and FOXO pathways in Bmal1 knockout mice. Consistent with an up-regulation of FOXO1 mRNA and protein levels in Bmal1 knockout IVDs, inhibition of FOXO1 in AF cells suppressed their osteogenic differentiation. Collectively, these data highlight the importance of the local molecular clock mechanism in the maintenance of the cell fate and ECM homeostasis of the IVD. Further studies may identify potential new molecular targets for alleviating IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Dudek
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Honor Morris
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Natalie Rogers
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Dharshika Rj Pathiranage
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Sujitha Saba Raj
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Danny Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Karl E Kadler
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Judith Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Central Manchester Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK.
| | - Qing-Jun Meng
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK.
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10
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Molinos M, Fiordalisi MF, Caldeira J, Almeida CR, Barbosa MA, Gonçalves RM. Alterations of bovine nucleus pulposus cells with aging. Aging Cell 2023; 22:e13873. [PMID: 37254638 PMCID: PMC10410011 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is one of the major etiological factors driving intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, the main cause of low back pain. The nucleus pulposus (NP) includes a heterogeneous cell population, which is still poorly characterized. Here, we aimed to uncover main alterations in NP cells with aging. For that, bovine coccygeal discs from young (12 months) and old (10-16 years old) animals were dissected and primary NP cells were isolated. Gene expression and proteomics of fresh NP cells were performed. NP cells were labelled with propidium iodide and analysed by flow cytometry for the expression of CD29, CD44, CD45, CD146, GD2, Tie2, CD34 and Stro-1. Morphological cell features were also dissected by imaging flow cytometry. Elder NP cells (up-regulated bIL-6 and bMMP1 gene expression) presented lower percentages of CD29+, CD44+, CD45+ and Tie2+ cells compared with young NP cells (upregulated bIL-8, bCOL2A1 and bACAN gene expression), while GD2, CD146, Stro-1 and CD34 expression were maintained with age. NP cellulome showed an upregulation of proteins related to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and melanosome independently of age, whereas proteins upregulated in elder NP cells were also associated with glycosylation and disulfide bonds. Flow cytometry analysis of NP cells disclosed the existence of 4 subpopulations with distinct auto-fluorescence and size with different dynamics along aging. Regarding cell morphology, aging increases NP cell area, diameter and vesicles. These results contribute to a better understanding of NP cells aging and highlighting potential anti-aging targets that can help to mitigate age-related disc disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Molinos
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em SaúdeUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia BiomédicaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- ICBAS – Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel SalazarUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
| | - Morena F. Fiordalisi
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em SaúdeUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia BiomédicaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- ICBAS – Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel SalazarUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
| | - Joana Caldeira
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em SaúdeUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia BiomédicaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
| | - Catarina R. Almeida
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em SaúdeUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia BiomédicaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- iBiMED – Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical SciencesUniversity of AveiroAveiroPortugal
| | - Mário A. Barbosa
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em SaúdeUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia BiomédicaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- ICBAS – Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel SalazarUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
| | - Raquel M. Gonçalves
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em SaúdeUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia BiomédicaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
- ICBAS – Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel SalazarUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
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11
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Wang D, Li Z, Huang W, Cao S, Xie L, Chen Y, Li H, Wang L, Chen X, Yang JR. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals heterogeneity and intercellular crosstalk in human intervertebral disc degeneration. iScience 2023; 26:106692. [PMID: 37216089 PMCID: PMC10192848 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The complexity of the human intervertebral disc (IVD) has hindered the elucidation of the microenvironment and mechanisms underlying IVD degeneration (IVDD). Here we determined the landscapes of nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF), and immunocytes in human IVD by scRNA-seq. Six NP subclusters and seven AF subclusters were identified, whose functional differences and distribution during different stages of degeneration (Pfirrmann I-V) were investigated. We found MCAM+ progenitor in AF, as well as CD24+ progenitor and MKI67+ progenitor in NP, forming a lineage trajectory from CD24+/MKI67+ progenitors to EffectorNP_⅓ during IVDD. There is a significant increase in monocyte/macrophage (Mφ) in degenerated IVDs (p = 0.044), with Mφ-SPP1 exclusively found in IVDD but not healthy IVDs. Further analyses of the intercellular crosstalk network revealed interactions between major subpopulations and changes in the microenvironment during IVDD. Our results elucidated the unique characteristics of IVDD, thereby shedding light on therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Wang
- College of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250000, China
| | - ZiZhang Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | | | - Shengnan Cao
- Neck-Shoulder and Lumbocrural Pain Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250062, China
| | - Liangyu Xie
- Neck-Shoulder and Lumbocrural Pain Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250062, China
| | - Yuanzhen Chen
- Neck-Shoulder and Lumbocrural Pain Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250062, China
| | - Huazhong Li
- Neck-Shoulder and Lumbocrural Pain Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250062, China
| | - Lei Wang
- 960th Hospital of PLA, Jinan 250031, China
| | - Xiaoshu Chen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jian-Rong Yang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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12
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Cuevas M, Terhune E, Wethey C, James M, Netsanet R, Grofova D, Monley A, Hadley Miller N. Cytoskeletal Keratins Are Overexpressed in a Zebrafish Model of Idiopathic Scoliosis. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14051058. [PMID: 37239418 DOI: 10.3390/genes14051058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic scoliosis (IS) is a three-dimensional rotation of the spine >10 degrees with an unknown etiology. Our laboratory established a late-onset IS model in zebrafish (Danio rerio) containing a deletion in kif7. A total of 25% of kif7co63/co63 zebrafish develop spinal curvatures and are otherwise developmentally normal, although the molecular mechanisms underlying the scoliosis are unknown. To define transcripts associated with scoliosis in this model, we performed bulk mRNA sequencing on 6 weeks past fertilization (wpf) kif7co63/co63 zebrafish with and without scoliosis. Additionally, we sequenced kif7co63/co63, kif7co63/+, and AB zebrafish (n = 3 per genotype). Sequencing reads were aligned to the GRCz11 genome and FPKM values were calculated. Differences between groups were calculated for each transcript by the t-test. Principal component analysis showed that transcriptomes clustered by sample age and genotype. kif7 mRNA was mildly reduced in both homozygous and heterozygous zebrafish compared to AB. Sonic hedgehog target genes were upregulated in kif7co63/co63 zebrafish over AB, but no difference was detected between scoliotic and non-scoliotic mutants. The top upregulated genes in scoliotic zebrafish were cytoskeletal keratins. Pankeratin staining of 6 wpf scoliotic and non-scoliotic kif7co63/co63 zebrafish showed increased keratin levels within the zebrafish musculature and intervertebral disc (IVD). Keratins are major components of the embryonic notochord, and aberrant keratin expression has been associated with intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) in both zebrafish and humans. The role of increased keratin accumulation as a molecular mechanism associated with the onset of scoliosis warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Cuevas
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Elizabeth Terhune
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Cambria Wethey
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - MkpoutoAbasi James
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Rahwa Netsanet
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Denisa Grofova
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Anna Monley
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Musculoskeletal Research Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Nancy Hadley Miller
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Musculoskeletal Research Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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13
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Ozden M, Silav ZK. Correlations of Disc Tissue Pathological Changes With Pfirrmann Grade in Patients With Disc Herniation Treated With Microdiscectomy. Cureus 2023; 15:e37913. [PMID: 37220462 PMCID: PMC10200016 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.37913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To reveal whether pathological disc changes (vascularization, inflammation, disc aging and senescence as assessed with immunohistopathological CD34, CD68, brachyury and P53 staining densities respectively) are associated with the extent of disease (Pfirrmann grade) and lumbar radicular pain in patients with lumbar disc herniation. We selectively included a homogenous group of 32 patients (16 males and 16 females) with single-level sequestered discs who had disease stages between Pfirrmann grades I to IV and excluded patients with the complete collapse of the disc space to determine histopathological correlations of the disease more precisely. MATERIALS AND METHODS Pathological assessments were performed on surgically excised disc specimens stored in a -80°C refrigerator. Preoperative and postoperative pain intensities were determined with visual analog scales (VASs). Pfirrmann disc degeneration grades were determined on routine T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). RESULTS Stainings were especially observed with CD34 and CD68, which positively correlated with each other and Pfirrmann grading but not with VAS scores or patients' age. Weak nuclear staining with brachyury was observed in 50% of patients and did not correlate with disease features. Focal weak staining with P53 was only seen in the disc specimen of two patients. CONCLUSIONS In the pathogenesis of disc disease, inflammation may trigger angiogenesis. The subsequent aberrant increase of oxygen perfusion in the disc cartilage may cause further damage, as the disc tissue is adapted to hypoxia. This vicious cycle of inflammation and angiogenesis may be a future innovative therapeutic target for chronic degenerative disc disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmut Ozden
- Neurosurgery, Memorial Bahcelievler Hospital, Istanbul, TUR
| | - Zuhal K Silav
- Pathology, Sadi Konuk Education and Research Hospital, Bakirkoy, TUR
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14
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Kawaguchi K, Akeda K, Yamada J, Hasegawa T, Takegami N, Fujiwara T, Sudo A. Expression of GADD45G and CAPRIN1 in Human Nucleus Pulposus: Implications for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065768. [PMID: 36982840 PMCID: PMC10059755 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Marked cellular changes occur in human intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration during disc degeneration with biochemical changes. Genome-wide analysis of the DNA methylation profile has identified 220 differentially methylated loci associated with human IVD degeneration. Among these, two cell-cycle-associated genes, growth arrest and DNA damage 45 gamma (GADD45G) and cytoplasmic activation/proliferation-associated protein-1 (CAPRIN1), were focused on. The expression of GADD45G and CAPRIN1 in human IVDs remains unknown. We aimed to examine the expression of GADD45G and CAPRIN1 in human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells and evaluate those in human NP tissues in the early and advanced stages of degeneration according to Pfirrmann magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological classifications. Human NP cells were cultured as monolayers after isolation from NP tissues by sequential enzyme digestion. Total RNA was isolated, and the mRNA expression of GADD45G and CAPRIN1 was quantified using real-time polymerase chain reaction. To examine the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines on mRNA expression, human NP cells were cultured in the presence of IL-1β. Protein expression was evaluated using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. GADD45G and CAPRIN1 expression was identified in human NP cells at both mRNA and protein levels. The percentage of cells immunopositive for GADD45G and CAPRIN1 significantly increased according to the Pfirrmann grade. A significant correlation between the histological degeneration score and the percentage of GADD45G-immunopositive cells was identified, but not with that of CAPRIN1-immunopositive cells. The expression of cell-cycle-associated proteins (GADD45G and CAPRIN1) was enhanced in human NP cells at an advanced stage of degeneration, suggesting that it may be regulated during the progression of IVD degeneration to maintain the integrity of human NP tissues by controlling cell proliferation and apoptosis under epigenetic alteration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koki Kawaguchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu 514-8507, Japan
| | - Koji Akeda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu 514-8507, Japan
| | - Junichi Yamada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu 514-8507, Japan
| | - Takahiro Hasegawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu 514-8507, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takegami
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu 514-8507, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiko Fujiwara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu 514-8507, Japan
| | - Akihiro Sudo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu 514-8507, Japan
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15
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Mohd Isa IL, Teoh SL, Mohd Nor NH, Mokhtar SA. Discogenic Low Back Pain: Anatomy, Pathophysiology and Treatments of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:208. [PMID: 36613651 PMCID: PMC9820240 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a major contributing factor for discogenic low back pain (LBP), causing a significant global disability. The IVD consists of an inner core proteoglycan-rich nucleus pulposus (NP) and outer lamellae collagen-rich annulus fibrosus (AF) and is confined by a cartilage end plate (CEP), providing structural support and shock absorption against mechanical loads. Changes to degenerative cascades in the IVD cause dysfunction and instability in the lumbar spine. Various treatments include pharmacological, rehabilitation or surgical interventions that aim to relieve pain; however, these modalities do not halt the pathologic events of disc degeneration or promote tissue regeneration. Loss of stem and progenitor markers, imbalance of the extracellular matrix (ECM), increase of inflammation, sensory hyperinnervation and vascularization, and associated signaling pathways have been identified as the onset and progression of disc degeneration. To better understand the pain originating from IVD, our review focuses on the anatomy of IVD and the pathophysiology of disc degeneration that contribute to the development of discogenic pain. We highlight the key mechanisms and associated signaling pathways underlying disc degeneration causing discogenic back pain, current clinical treatments, clinical perspective and directions of future therapies. Our review comprehensively provides a better understanding of healthy IVD and degenerative events of the IVD associated with discogenic pain, which helps to model painful disc degeneration as a therapeutic platform and to identify signaling pathways as therapeutic targets for the future treatment of discogenic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isma Liza Mohd Isa
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
- SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, H91W2TY Galway, Ireland
| | - Seong Lin Teoh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Huda Mohd Nor
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor 43400, Malaysia
| | - Sabarul Afian Mokhtar
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
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16
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Tu Y, Muley MM, Beggs S, Salter MW. Microglia-independent peripheral neuropathic pain in male and female mice. Pain 2022; 163:e1129-e1144. [PMID: 35384869 PMCID: PMC9578531 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The dominant view in the field of pain is that peripheral neuropathic pain is driven by microglia in the somatosensory processing region of the spinal dorsal horn. Here, to the contrary, we discovered a form of neuropathic pain that is independent of microglia. Mice in which the nucleus pulposus (NP) of the intervertebral disc was apposed to the sciatic nerve developed a constellation of neuropathic pain behaviours: hypersensitivity to mechanical, cold, and heat stimuli. However, NP application caused no activation of spinal microglia nor was pain hypersensitivity reversed by microglial inhibition. Rather, NP-induced pain hypersensitivity was dependent on cells within the NP which recruited macrophages to the adjacent nerve. Eliminating macrophages systemically or locally prevented NP-induced pain hypersensitivity. Pain hypersensitivity was also prevented by genetically disrupting the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor selectively in macrophages. Moreover, the behavioural phenotypes as well as the molecular mechanisms of NP-induced pain hypersensitivity were not different between males and females. Our findings reveal a previously unappreciated mechanism for by which a discrete peripheral nerve lesion may produce pain hypersensitivity, which may help to explain the limited success of microglial inhibitors on neuropathic pain in human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- YuShan Tu
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Milind M. Muley
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto Centre for the Study of Pain, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Simon Beggs
- Developmental Neurosciences, UCL GOSH Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael W. Salter
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto Centre for the Study of Pain, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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17
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Concerns about cell therapy for intervertebral disc degeneration. NPJ Regen Med 2022; 7:46. [PMID: 36068218 PMCID: PMC9448766 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-022-00245-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
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18
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Laagland LT, Bach FC, Creemers LB, Le Maitre CL, Poramba‐Liyanage DW, Tryfonidou MA. Hyperosmolar expansion medium improves nucleus pulposus cell phenotype. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1219. [PMID: 36203869 PMCID: PMC9520765 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Repopulating the degenerated intervertebral disc (IVD) with tissue‐specific nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) has already been shown to promote regeneration in various species. Yet the applicability of NPCs as cell‐based therapy has been hampered by the low cell numbers that can be extracted from donor IVDs and their potentially limited regenerative capacity due to their degenerated phenotype. To optimize the expansion conditions, we investigated the effects of increasing culture medium osmolarity during expansion on the phenotype of dog NPCs and their ability to produce a healthy extracellular matrix (ECM) in a 3D culture model. Methods Dog NPCs were expanded in expansion medium with a standard osmolarity of 300 mOsm/L or adjusted to 400 or 500 mOsm/L in both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Following expansion, NPCs were cultured in a 3D culture model in chondrogenic culture medium with a standard osmolarity. Read‐out parameters included cell proliferaton rate, morphology, phenotype and healthy ECM production. Results Increasing the expansion medium osmolarity from 300 to 500 mOsm/L resulted in NPCs with a more rounded morphology and a lower cell proliferation rate accompanied by the expression of several healthy NPC and progenitor markers at gene (KRT18, ACAN, COL2, CD73, CD90) and protein (ACAN, PAX1, CD24, TEK, CD73) level. The NPCs expanded at 500 mOsm/L were able to retain most of their phenotypic markers and produce healthy ECM during 3D culture independent of the oxygen level used during expansion. Conclusions Altogether, our findings show that increasing medium osmolarity during expansion results in an NPC population with improved phenotype, which could enhance the potential of cell‐based therapies for IVD regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisanne T. Laagland
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Frances C. Bach
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Laura B. Creemers
- Department of Orthopedics University Medical Centre Utrecht Utrecht The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Utrecht The Netherlands
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19
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Jiang W, Glaeser JD, Salehi K, Kaneda G, Mathkar P, Wagner A, Ho R, Sheyn D. Single-cell atlas unveils cellular heterogeneity and novel markers in human neonatal and adult intervertebral discs. iScience 2022; 25:104504. [PMID: 35754733 PMCID: PMC9213722 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The origin, composition, distribution, and function of cells in the human intervertebral disc (IVD) have not been fully understood. Here, cell atlases of both human neonatal and adult IVDs have been generated and further assessed by gene ontology pathway enrichment, pseudo-time trajectory, histology, and immunofluorescence. Comparison of cell atlases revealed the presence of two subpopulations of notochordal cells (NCs) and their associated markers in both the neonatal and adult IVDs. Developmental trajectories predicted 7 different cell states that describe the developmental process from neonatal to adult cells in IVD and analyzed the NC’s role in the IVD development. A high heterogeneity and gradual transition of annulus fibrosus cells (AFCs) in the neonatal IVD was detected and their potential relevance in IVD development assessed. Collectively, comparing single-cell atlases between neonatal and adult IVDs delineates the landscape of IVD cell biology and may help discover novel therapeutic targets for IVD degeneration. Compared scRNA-seq between human neonatal and adult IVD Identified two notochordal cell populations in adults and their novel markers Notochordal cells preserved their identity and functions into adulthood Unveiled heterogeneity of nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus cells in human IVD
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Affiliation(s)
- Wensen Jiang
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Juliane D. Glaeser
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Khosrowdad Salehi
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Giselle Kaneda
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Pranav Mathkar
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Anton Wagner
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Ritchie Ho
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Center for Neural Sciences and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Dmitriy Sheyn
- Orthopaedic Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Corresponding author
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20
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Tang SN, Walter BA, Heimann MK, Gantt CC, Khan SN, Kokiko-Cochran ON, Askwith CC, Purmessur D. In vivo Mouse Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Models and Their Utility as Translational Models of Clinical Discogenic Back Pain: A Comparative Review. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:894651. [PMID: 35812017 PMCID: PMC9261914 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.894651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide and studies have demonstrated intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration as a major risk factor. While many in vitro models have been developed and used to study IVD pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies, the etiology of IVD degeneration is a complex multifactorial process involving crosstalk of nearby tissues and systemic effects. Thus, the use of appropriate in vivo models is necessary to fully understand the associated molecular, structural, and functional changes and how they relate to pain. Mouse models have been widely adopted due to accessibility and ease of genetic manipulation compared to other animal models. Despite their small size, mice lumbar discs demonstrate significant similarities to the human IVD in terms of geometry, structure, and mechanical properties. While several different mouse models of IVD degeneration exist, greater standardization of the methods for inducing degeneration and the development of a consistent set of output measurements could allow mouse models to become a stronger tool for clinical translation. This article reviews current mouse models of IVD degeneration in the context of clinical translation and highlights a critical set of output measurements for studying disease pathology or screening regenerative therapies with an emphasis on pain phenotyping. First, we summarized and categorized these models into genetic, age-related, and mechanically induced. Then, the outcome parameters assessed in these models are compared including, molecular, cellular, functional/structural, and pain assessments for both evoked and spontaneous pain. These comparisons highlight a set of potential key parameters that can be used to validate the model and inform its utility to screen potential therapies for IVD degeneration and their translation to the human condition. As treatment of symptomatic pain is important, this review provides an emphasis on critical pain-like behavior assessments in mice and explores current behavioral assessments relevant to discogenic back pain. Overall, the specific research question was determined to be essential to identify the relevant model with histological staining, imaging, extracellular matrix composition, mechanics, and pain as critical parameters for assessing degeneration and regenerative strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley N. Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Benjamin A. Walter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Orthopaedics, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Mary K. Heimann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Connor C. Gantt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Safdar N. Khan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Olga N. Kokiko-Cochran
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Candice C. Askwith
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Orthopaedics, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Devina Purmessur ;
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21
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Importance of Matrix Cues on Intervertebral Disc Development, Degeneration, and Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136915. [PMID: 35805921 PMCID: PMC9266338 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide and is frequently caused by degeneration of the intervertebral discs. The discs’ development, homeostasis, and degeneration are driven by a complex series of biochemical and physical extracellular matrix cues produced by and transmitted to native cells. Thus, understanding the roles of different cues is essential for designing effective cellular and regenerative therapies. Omics technologies have helped identify many new matrix cues; however, comparatively few matrix molecules have thus far been incorporated into tissue engineered models. These include collagen type I and type II, laminins, glycosaminoglycans, and their biomimetic analogues. Modern biofabrication techniques, such as 3D bioprinting, are also enabling the spatial patterning of matrix molecules and growth factors to direct regional effects. These techniques should now be applied to biochemically, physically, and structurally relevant disc models incorporating disc and stem cells to investigate the drivers of healthy cell phenotype and differentiation. Such research will inform the development of efficacious regenerative therapies and improved clinical outcomes.
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22
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Single-Cell RNA-Seq Analysis of Cells from Degenerating and Non-Degenerating Intervertebral Discs from the Same Individual Reveals New Biomarkers for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073993. [PMID: 35409356 PMCID: PMC8999935 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we used single-cell transcriptomic analysis to identify new specific biomarkers for nucleus pulposus (NP) and inner annulus fibrosis (iAF) cells, and to define cell populations within non-degenerating (nD) and degenerating (D) human intervertebral discs (IVD) of the same individual. Cluster analysis based on differential gene expression delineated 14 cell clusters. Gene expression profiles at single-cell resolution revealed the potential functional differences linked to degeneration, and among NP and iAF subpopulations. GO and KEGG analyses discovered molecular functions, biological processes, and transcription factors linked to cell type and degeneration state. We propose two lists of biomarkers, one as specific cell type, including C2orf40, MGP, MSMP, CD44, EIF1, LGALS1, RGCC, EPYC, HILPDA, ACAN, MT1F, CHI3L1, ID1, ID3 and TMED2. The second list proposes predictive IVD degeneration genes, including MT1G, SPP1, HMGA1, FN1, FBXO2, SPARC, VIM, CTGF, MGST1, TAF1D, CAPS, SPTSSB, S100A1, CHI3L2, PLA2G2A, TNRSF11B, FGFBP2, MGP, SLPI, DCN, MT-ND2, MTCYB, ADIRF, FRZB, CLEC3A, UPP1, S100A2, PRG4, COL2A1, SOD2 and MT2A. Protein and mRNA expression of MGST1, vimentin, SOD2 and SYF2 (p29) genes validated our scRNA-seq findings. Our data provide new insights into disc cells phenotypes and biomarkers of IVD degeneration that could improve diagnostic and therapeutic options.
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23
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Kamatani T, Hagizawa H, Yarimitsu S, Morioka M, Koyamatsu S, Sugimoto M, Kodama J, Yamane J, Ishiguro H, Shichino S, Abe K, Fujibuchi W, Fujie H, Kaito T, Tsumaki N. Human iPS cell-derived cartilaginous tissue spatially and functionally replaces nucleus pulposus. Biomaterials 2022; 284:121491. [PMID: 35395453 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The loss of nucleus pulposus (NP) precedes the intervertebral disk (IVD) degeneration that causes back pain. Here, we demonstrate that the implantation of human iPS cell-derived cartilaginous tissue (hiPS-Cart) restores this loss by replacing lost NP spatially and functionally. NP cells consist of notochordal NP cells and chondrocyte-like NP cells. Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis revealed that cells in hiPS-Cart corresponded to chondrocyte-like NP cells but not to notochordal NP cells. The implantation of hiPS-Cart into a nuclectomized space of IVD in nude rats prevented the degeneration of the IVD and preserved its mechanical properties. hiPS-Cart survived and occupied the nuclectomized space for at least six months after implantation, indicating spatial and functional replacement of lost NP by hiPS-Cart. Further scRNA-seq analysis revealed that hiPS-Cart cells changed their profile after implantation, differentiating into two lineages that are metabolically distinct from each other. However, post-implanted hiPS-Cart cells corresponded to chondrocyte-like NP cells only and did not develop into notochordal NP cells, suggesting that chondrocyte-like NP cells are nearly sufficient for NP function. The data collectively indicate that hiPS-Cart is a candidate implant for regenerating NP spatially and functionally and preventing IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Kamatani
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroki Hagizawa
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan; Department of Tissue Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Seido Yarimitsu
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Faculty of Systems Design, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami-Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo, 192-0397, Japan
| | - Miho Morioka
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Tissue Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Saeko Koyamatsu
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Tissue Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Michihiko Sugimoto
- Technology and Development Team for Mammalian Genome Dynamics, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, 3-1-1 Koyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0074, Japan
| | - Joe Kodama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Junko Yamane
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ishiguro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shigeyuki Shichino
- Division of Molecular Regulation of Inflammatory and Immune Diseases, Research Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Building 17 Second Floor, 2641, Yamasaki, Noda, Chiba, 278-0042, Japan
| | - Kuniya Abe
- Technology and Development Team for Mammalian Genome Dynamics, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, 3-1-1 Koyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0074, Japan
| | - Wataru Fujibuchi
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Fujie
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Faculty of Systems Design, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami-Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo, 192-0397, Japan
| | - Takashi Kaito
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Tsumaki
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Tissue Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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Bach FC, Poramba-Liyanage DW, Riemers FM, Guicheux J, Camus A, Iatridis JC, Chan D, Ito K, Le Maitre CL, Tryfonidou MA. Notochordal Cell-Based Treatment Strategies and Their Potential in Intervertebral Disc Regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:780749. [PMID: 35359916 PMCID: PMC8963872 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.780749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low back pain is the number one cause of years lived with disability. In about 40% of patients, chronic lower back pain is related to intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. The standard-of-care focuses on symptomatic relief, while surgery is the last resort. Emerging therapeutic strategies target the underlying cause of IVD degeneration and increasingly focus on the relatively overlooked notochordal cells (NCs). NCs are derived from the notochord and once the notochord regresses they remain in the core of the developing IVD, the nucleus pulposus. The large vacuolated NCs rapidly decline after birth and are replaced by the smaller nucleus pulposus cells with maturation, ageing, and degeneration. Here, we provide an update on the journey of NCs and discuss the cell markers and tools that can be used to study their fate and regenerative capacity. We review the therapeutic potential of NCs for the treatment of IVD-related lower back pain and outline important future directions in this area. Promising studies indicate that NCs and their secretome exerts regenerative effects, via increased proliferation, extracellular matrix production, and anti-inflammatory effects. Reports on NC-like cells derived from embryonic- or induced pluripotent-stem cells claim to have successfully generated NC-like cells but did not compare them with native NCs for phenotypic markers or in terms of their regenerative capacity. Altogether, this is an emerging and active field of research with exciting possibilities. NC-based studies demonstrate that cues from developmental biology can pave the path for future clinical therapies focused on regenerating the diseased IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances C. Bach
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Frank M. Riemers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jerome Guicheux
- UMR 1229-RMeS, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, Université de Nantes, ONIRIS, Nantes, France
- UFR Odontologie, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
- PHU4 OTONN, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Anne Camus
- UMR 1229-RMeS, Regenerative Medicine and Skeleton, Université de Nantes, ONIRIS, Nantes, France
| | - James C. Iatridis
- Leni and Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Danny Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Keita Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Christine L. Le Maitre
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Marianna A. Tryfonidou,
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Hickman TT, Rathan-Kumar S, Peck SH. Development, Pathogenesis, and Regeneration of the Intervertebral Disc: Current and Future Insights Spanning Traditional to Omics Methods. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:841831. [PMID: 35359439 PMCID: PMC8963184 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.841831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is the fibrocartilaginous joint located between each vertebral body that confers flexibility and weight bearing capabilities to the spine. The IVD plays an important role in absorbing shock and stress applied to the spine, which helps to protect not only the vertebral bones, but also the brain and the rest of the central nervous system. Degeneration of the IVD is correlated with back pain, which can be debilitating and severely affects quality of life. Indeed, back pain results in substantial socioeconomic losses and healthcare costs globally each year, with about 85% of the world population experiencing back pain at some point in their lifetimes. Currently, therapeutic strategies for treating IVD degeneration are limited, and as such, there is great interest in advancing treatments for back pain. Ideally, treatments for back pain would restore native structure and thereby function to the degenerated IVD. However, the complex developmental origin and tissue composition of the IVD along with the avascular nature of the mature disc makes regeneration of the IVD a uniquely challenging task. Investigators across the field of IVD research have been working to elucidate the mechanisms behind the formation of this multifaceted structure, which may identify new therapeutic targets and inform development of novel regenerative strategies. This review summarizes current knowledge base on IVD development, degeneration, and regenerative strategies taken from traditional genetic approaches and omics studies and discusses the future landscape of investigations in IVD research and advancement of clinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara T. Hickman
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sudiksha Rathan-Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sun H. Peck
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- *Correspondence: Sun H. Peck,
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Guo W, Douma L, Hu MH, Eglin D, Alini M, Šećerović A, Grad S, Peng X, Zou X, D'Este M, Peroglio M. Hyaluronic acid-based interpenetrating network hydrogel as a cell carrier for nucleus pulposus repair. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 277:118828. [PMID: 34893245 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.118828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a key component of the intervertebral disc (IVD) that is widely investigated as an IVD biomaterial. One persisting challenge is introducing materials capable of supporting cell encapsulation and function, yet with sufficient mechanical stability. In this study, a hybrid interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) was produced as a non-covalent hydrogel, based on a covalently cross-linked HA (HA-BDDE) and HA-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (HA-pNIPAM). The hybrid IPN was investigated for its physicochemical properties, with histology and gene expression analysis to determine matrix deposition in vitro and in an ex vivo model. The IPN hydrogel displayed cohesiveness for at least one week and rheological properties resembling native nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue. When implanted in an ex vivo IVD organ culture model, the IPN supported cell viability, phenotype expression of encapsulated NP cells and IVD matrix production over four weeks under physiological loading. Overall, our results indicate the therapeutic potential of this HA-based IPN hydrogel for IVD regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Guo
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland; Department of Spinal Surgery, Orthopaedic Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Luzia Douma
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Ming Hsien Hu
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - David Eglin
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Mauro Alini
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Amra Šećerović
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Sibylle Grad
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Xinsheng Peng
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Orthopaedic Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Xuenong Zou
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Orthopaedic Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Matteo D'Este
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland.
| | - Marianna Peroglio
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
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27
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Zhu K, Zhao R, Ye Y, Xu G, Zhang C. Effect of lentivirus-mediated growth and differentiation factor-5 transfection on differentiation of rabbit nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cells. Eur J Med Res 2022; 27:5. [PMID: 35022077 PMCID: PMC8756615 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-021-00624-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a natural progression of age-related processes. Associated with IDD, degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a pathologic condition implicated as a major cause of chronic lower back pain, which can have a severe impact on the quality of life of patients. As degeneration progression is associated with elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, enhanced aggrecan and collagen degradation, and changes in the disc cell phenotype. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biological and cytological characteristics of rabbit nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs)—a key factor in IDD—and to determine the effect of the growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF5) on the differentiation of rabbit NPMSCs transduced with a lentivirus vector. Methods An in vitro culture model of rabbit NPMSCs was established and NPMSCs were identified by flow cytometry (FCM) and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Subsequently, NPMSCs were randomly divided into three groups: a transfection group (the lentiviral vector carrying GDF5 gene used to transfect NPMSCs); a control virus group (the NPMSCs transfected with an ordinary lentiviral vector); and a normal group (the NPMSCs alone). FCM, qRT-PCR, and western blot (WB) were used to detect the changes in NPMSCs. Results The GDF5-transfected NPMSCs displayed an elongated shape, with decreased cell density, and significantly increased GDF5 positivity rate in the transfected group compared to the other two groups (P < 0.01). The mRNA levels of Krt8, Krt18, and Krt19 in the transfected group were significantly higher in comparison with the other two groups (P < 0.01), and the WB results were consistent with that of qRT-PCR. Conclusions GDF5 could induce the differentiation of NPMSCs. The lentiviral vector carrying the GDF5 gene could be integrated into the chromosome genome of NPMSCs and promoted differentiation of NPMSCs into nucleus pulposus cells. Our findings advance the development of feasible and effective therapies for IDD. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40001-021-00624-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, No. 287, Changhuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Department of General Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Yuchen Ye
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, No. 287, Changhuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Gang Xu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, No. 287, Changhuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China.
| | - Changchun Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, No. 287, Changhuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China.
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Tu J, Li W, Yang S, Yang P, Yan Q, Wang S, Lai K, Bai X, Wu C, Ding W, Cooper‐White J, Diwan A, Yang C, Yang H, Zou J. Single-Cell Transcriptome Profiling Reveals Multicellular Ecosystem of Nucleus Pulposus during Degeneration Progression. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2103631. [PMID: 34825784 PMCID: PMC8787427 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202103631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Although degeneration of the nucleus pulposus (NP) is a major contributor to intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and low back pain, the underlying molecular complexity and cellular heterogeneity remain poorly understood. Here, a comprehensive single-cell resolution transcript landscape of human NP is reported. Six novel human NP cells (NPCs) populations are identified by their distinct molecular signatures. The potential functional differences among NPC subpopulations are analyzed. Predictive transcripts, transcriptional factors, and signal pathways with respect to degeneration grades are explored. It is reported that fibroNPCs is the subpopulation for end-stage degeneration. CD90+NPCs are observed to be progenitor cells in degenerative NP tissues. NP-infiltrating immune cells comprise a previously unrecognized diversity of cell types, including granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (G-MDSCs). Integrin αM (CD11b) and oxidized low density lipoprotein receptor 1 (OLR1) as surface markers of NP-derived G-MDSCs are uncovered. The G-MDSCs are found to be enriched in mildly degenerated (grade II and III) NP tissues compared to severely degenerated (grade IV and V) NP tissues. Their immunosuppressive function and alleviation effects on NPCs' matrix degradation are revealed in vitro. Collectively, this study reveals the NPC-type complexity and phenotypic characteristics in NP, thereby providing new insights and clues for IVDD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Tu
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou215006China
- Spine Labs, St. George and Sutherland Clinical SchoolFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South Wales2217Australia
| | - Wentian Li
- Spine Labs, St. George and Sutherland Clinical SchoolFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South Wales2217Australia
| | - Sidong Yang
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and NanotechnologyThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaBrisbaneQueensland4072Australia
- Department of Spine SurgeryThe Third Hospital of Hebei Medical UniversityShijiazhuang05000China
| | - Pengyi Yang
- Charles Perkins CentreThe University of SydneySydneyNSW2006Australia
- School of Life and Environmental SciencesThe University of SydneySydneyNSW2006Australia
- Computational Systems Biology GroupChildren's Medical Research InstituteFaculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneyWestmeadNSW2145Australia
| | - Qi Yan
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou215006China
| | - Shenyu Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou215006China
| | - Kaitao Lai
- The ANZAC Research InstituteConcord Repatriation General HospitalSydneyNSW2139Australia
- Concord Clinical SchoolFaculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneySydneyNSW2139Australia
| | - Xupeng Bai
- Cancer Care CentreSt. George and Sutherland Clinical SchoolFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South Wales2052Australia
| | - Cenhao Wu
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou215006China
| | - Wenyuan Ding
- Department of Spine SurgeryThe Third Hospital of Hebei Medical UniversityShijiazhuang05000China
| | - Justin Cooper‐White
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and NanotechnologyThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaBrisbaneQueensland4072Australia
- School of Chemical EngineeringThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueensland4072Australia
| | - Ashish Diwan
- Spine Labs, St. George and Sutherland Clinical SchoolFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South Wales2217Australia
- Spine ServiceDepartment of Orthopaedic SurgerySt. George HospitalKogarahNew South Wales2217Australia
| | - Cao Yang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWuhan Union HospitalTongji Medical SchoolHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430022China
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou215006China
| | - Jun Zou
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou215006China
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KRAUS P, SAMANTA A, LUFKIN S, LUFKIN T. Stem cells in intervertebral disc regeneration-more talk than action? BIOCELL 2021; 46:893-898. [PMID: 34966192 PMCID: PMC8713956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Pain and lifestyle changes are common consequences of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and affect a large part of the aging population. The stemness of cells is exploited in the field of regenerative medicine as key to treat degenerative diseases. Transplanted cells however often face delivery and survival challenges, especially in tissues with a naturally harsh microniche environment such as the intervertebral disc. Recent interest in the secretome of stem cells, especially cargo protected from microniche-related decay as frequently present in degenerating tissues, provides new means of rejuvenating ailing cells and tissues. Exosomes, a type of extracellular vesicles with purposeful cargo gained particular interest in conveying stem cell related attributes of rejuvenation, which will be discussed here in the context of IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra KRAUS
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA, Address correspondence to: Petra Kraus,
| | - Ankita SAMANTA
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
| | - Sina LUFKIN
- The Clarkson School, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
| | - Thomas LUFKIN
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
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30
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Dieterle MP, Husari A, Rolauffs B, Steinberg T, Tomakidi P. Integrins, cadherins and channels in cartilage mechanotransduction: perspectives for future regeneration strategies. Expert Rev Mol Med 2021; 23:e14. [PMID: 34702419 PMCID: PMC8724267 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2021.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Articular cartilage consists of hyaline cartilage, is a major constituent of the human musculoskeletal system and has critical functions in frictionless joint movement and articular homoeostasis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is an inflammatory disease of articular cartilage, which promotes joint degeneration. Although it affects millions of people, there are no satisfying therapies that address this disease at the molecular level. Therefore, tissue regeneration approaches aim at modifying chondrocyte biology to mitigate the consequences of OA. This requires appropriate biochemical and biophysical stimulation of cells. Regarding the latter, mechanotransduction of chondrocytes and their precursor cells has become increasingly important over the last few decades. Mechanotransduction is the transformation of external biophysical stimuli into intracellular biochemical signals, involving sensor molecules at the cell surface and intracellular signalling molecules, so-called mechano-sensors and -transducers. These signalling events determine cell behaviour. Mechanotransducing ion channels and gap junctions additionally govern chondrocyte physiology. It is of great scientific and medical interest to induce a specific cell behaviour by controlling these mechanotransduction pathways and to translate this knowledge into regenerative clinical therapies. This review therefore focuses on the mechanotransduction properties of integrins, cadherins and ion channels in cartilaginous tissues to provide perspectives for cartilage regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Philipp Dieterle
- Division of Oral Biotechnology, Center for Dental Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, 79106Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ayman Husari
- Division of Oral Biotechnology, Center for Dental Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, 79106Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Orthodontics, Center for Dental Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, 79106Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Medical Center – Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thorsten Steinberg
- Division of Oral Biotechnology, Center for Dental Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, 79106Freiburg, Germany
| | - Pascal Tomakidi
- Division of Oral Biotechnology, Center for Dental Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, 79106Freiburg, Germany
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DeMaria PJ, Lee-Wisdom K, Donahue RN, Madan RA, Karzai F, Schwab A, Palena C, Jochems C, Floudas C, Strauss J, Marté JL, Redman JM, Dombi E, Widemann B, Korchin B, Adams T, Pico-Navarro C, Heery C, Schlom J, Gulley JL, Bilusic M. Phase 1 open-label trial of intravenous administration of MVA-BN-brachyury-TRICOM vaccine in patients with advanced cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-003238. [PMID: 34479925 PMCID: PMC8420671 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background MVA-BN-brachyury-TRICOM is a recombinant vector-based therapeutic cancer vaccine designed to induce an immune response against brachyury. Brachyury, a transcription factor overexpressed in advanced cancers, has been associated with treatment resistance, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and metastatic potential. MVA-BN-brachyury-TRICOM has demonstrated immunogenicity and safety in previous clinical trials of subcutaneously administered vaccine. Preclinical studies have suggested that intravenous administration of therapeutic vaccines can induce superior CD8+ T cell responses, higher levels of systemic cytokine release, and stronger natural killer cell activation and proliferation. This is the first-in-human study of the intravenous administration of MVA-BN-brachyury-TRICOM. Methods Between January 2020 and March 2021, 13 patients were treated on a phase 1, open-label, 3+3 design, dose-escalation study at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center. The study population was adults with advanced solid tumors and was enriched for chordoma, a rare sarcoma of the notochord that overexpresses brachyury. Vaccine was administered intravenously at three DLs on days 1, 22, and 43. Blood samples were taken to assess drug pharmacokinetics and immune activation. Imaging was conducted at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months post-treatment. The primary endpoint was safety and tolerability as determined by the frequency of dose-limiting toxicities; a secondary endpoint was determination of the recommended phase 2 dose. Results No dose-limiting toxicities were observed and no serious adverse events were attributed to the vaccine. Vaccine-related toxicities were consistent with class profile (ie, influenza-like symptoms). Cytokine release syndrome up to grade 2 was observed with no adverse outcomes. Dose-effect trend was observed for fever, chills/rigor, and hypotension. Efficacy analysis of objective response rate per RECIST 1.1 at the end of study showed one patient with a partial response, four with stable disease, and eight with progressive disease. Three patients with stable disease experienced clinical benefit in the form of improvement in pain. Immune correlatives showed T cell activation against brachyury and other tumor-associated cascade antigens. Conclusions Intravenous administration of MVA-BN-brachyury-TRICOM vaccine was safe and tolerable. Maximum tolerated dose was not reached. The maximum administered dose was 109 infectious units every 3 weeks for three doses. This dose was selected as the recommended phase 2 dose. Trial registration number NCT04134312.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J DeMaria
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Katherine Lee-Wisdom
- Medical Oncology Service, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Renee N Donahue
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Ravi A Madan
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Fatima Karzai
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Angie Schwab
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Claudia Palena
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Caroline Jochems
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Charalampos Floudas
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Julius Strauss
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer L Marté
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jason Mark Redman
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Eva Dombi
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Brigitte Widemann
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Borys Korchin
- Oncology Strategy, Bavarian Nordic Inc, Morrisville, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Cesar Pico-Navarro
- Oncology Strategy, Bavarian Nordic Inc, Morrisville, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey Schlom
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - James L Gulley
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Marijo Bilusic
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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32
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Kanda Y, Yurube T, Morita Y, Takeoka Y, Kurakawa T, Tsujimoto R, Miyazaki K, Kakiuchi Y, Miyazaki S, Zhang Z, Takada T, Hoshino Y, Masuda K, Kuroda R, Kakutani K. Delayed notochordal cell disappearance through integrin α5β1 mechanotransduction during ex-vivo dynamic loading-induced intervertebral disc degeneration. J Orthop Res 2021; 39:1933-1944. [PMID: 33049071 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The loss of nucleus pulposus (NP) notochordal cells is one of the key initial hallmarks of age-related intervertebral disc degeneration. Although the transmembrane mechanoreceptor integrin α5β1 is important in the process of disc degeneration, the relationship between integrin α5β1 and notochordal cell disappearance remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the role of integrin α5β1 in the homeostasis of notochordal cells using an ex-vivo dynamic loading culture system that we developed. Rat tail functional spinal units (n = 80 from 40 rats) were cultured under unloading or 1.3-MPa, 1.0-Hz dynamic compressive loading for 48 or 144 h with or without an integrin α5β1 inhibitor. Disc histomorphology, cell viability, apoptosis, senescence, and phenotypic expression were investigated. Consequently, histological degenerative disc changes with decreased cell viability and increased cell apoptosis and senescence were observed with an extended loading duration. Immunofluorescence revealed that the expression of notochordal cell markers, CD24 and brachyury, and chondrocyte markers, collagen type II and SRY-box 9, declined with loading. In particular, reduction in notochordal cell marker expression was more dramatic than that in chondrocyte marker expression. Apoptotic terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling positivity was also higher in brachyury-positive notochordal cells. Furthermore, all these changes were delayed by inhibiting integrin α5β1. Findings of our dynamic loading regimen with a relatively high pressure suggest reproducibility of the cellularity and phenotypic disappearance of NP notochordal cells during adolescence, the susceptibility of notochordal cells to mechanical stimuli partially through the integrin α5β1 pathway, and future potential treatment of integrin regulation for intervertebral disc disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaro Kanda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takashi Yurube
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yusuke Morita
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Takeoka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takuto Kurakawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Ryu Tsujimoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Miyazaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yuji Kakiuchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Shingo Miyazaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Zhongying Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Toru Takada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe Hokuto Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yuichi Hoshino
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Koichi Masuda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Ryosuke Kuroda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Kakutani
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
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Kudelko M, Chen P, Tam V, Zhang Y, Kong OY, Sharma R, Au TY, To MKT, Cheah KS, Chan WC, Chan D. PRIMUS: Comprehensive proteomics of mouse intervertebral discs that inform novel biology and relevance to human disease modelling. Matrix Biol Plus 2021; 12:100082. [PMID: 34409283 PMCID: PMC8361275 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2021.100082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteomics of healthy mouse IVDs differentiating compartments and spine levels. NP cells feature vacuoles with lysosomal, transport and cell–cell communication functions. Collagen XII, decorin and other ECM proteins contribute to function of the AF. Distinct proteomics between lumbar and tail discs. Mouse is a relevant model for human disc biology but care is needed in its use.
Mice are commonly used to study intervertebral disc (IVD) biology and related diseases such as IVD degeneration. Discs from both the lumbar and tail regions are used. However, little is known about compartmental characteristics in the different regions, nor their relevance to the human setting, where a functional IVD unit depends on a homeostatic proteome. Here, we address these major gaps through comprehensive proteomic profiling and in-depth analyses of 8-week-old healthy murine discs, followed by comparisons with human. Leveraging on a dataset of over 2,700 proteins from 31 proteomic profiles, we identified key molecular and cellular differences between disc compartments and spine levels, but not gender. The nucleus pulposus (NP) and annulus fibrosus (AF) compartments differ the most, both in matrisome and cellularity contents. Differences in the matrisome are consistent with the fibrous nature required for tensile strength in the AF and hydration property in the NP. Novel findings for the NP cells included an enrichment in cell junction proteins for cell–cell communication (Cdh2, Dsp and Gja1) and osmoregulation (Slc12a2 and Wnk1). In NP cells, we detected heterogeneity of vacuolar organelles; where about half have potential lysosomal function (Vamp3, Copb2, Lamp1/2, Lamtor1), some contain lipid droplets and others with undefined contents. The AF is enriched in proteins for the oxidative stress responses (Sod3 and Clu). Interestingly, mitochondrial proteins are elevated in the lumbar than tail IVDs that may reflect differences in metabolic requirement. Relative to the human, cellular and structural information are conserved for the AF. Even though the NP is more divergent between mouse and human, there are similarities at the level of cell biology. Further, common cross-species markers were identified for both NP (KRT8/19, CD109) and AF (COL12A1). Overall, mouse is a relevant model to study IVD biology, and an understanding of the limitation will facilitate research planning and data interpretation, maximizing the translation of research findings to human IVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Kudelko
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Peikai Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Department of Orthopaedics Surgery and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong -Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), Shenzhen, China
| | - Vivian Tam
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Oi-Yin Kong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Rakesh Sharma
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Tiffany Y.K. Au
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Michael Kai-Tsun To
- Department of Orthopaedics Surgery and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong -Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), Shenzhen, China
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Kathryn S.E. Cheah
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Wilson C.W. Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Department of Orthopaedics Surgery and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong -Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), Shenzhen, China
| | - Danny Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Department of Orthopaedics Surgery and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong -Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), Shenzhen, China
- Corresponding author at: School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Building, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
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Gan Y, He J, Zhu J, Xu Z, Wang Z, Yan J, Hu O, Bai Z, Chen L, Xie Y, Jin M, Huang S, Liu B, Liu P. Spatially defined single-cell transcriptional profiling characterizes diverse chondrocyte subtypes and nucleus pulposus progenitors in human intervertebral discs. Bone Res 2021; 9:37. [PMID: 34400611 PMCID: PMC8368097 DOI: 10.1038/s41413-021-00163-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of the cellular heterogeneity and molecular mechanisms underlying the development, homeostasis, and disease of human intervertebral disks (IVDs) remains challenging. Here, the transcriptomic landscape of 108 108 IVD cells was mapped using single-cell RNA sequencing of three main compartments from young and adult healthy IVDs, including the nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus, and cartilage endplate (CEP). The chondrocyte subclusters were classified based on their potential regulatory, homeostatic, and effector functions in extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. Notably, in the NP, a PROCR+ resident progenitor population showed enriched colony-forming unit-fibroblast (CFU-F) activity and trilineage differentiation capacity. Finally, intercellular crosstalk based on signaling network analysis uncovered that the PDGF and TGF-β cascades are important cues in the NP microenvironment. In conclusion, a single-cell transcriptomic atlas that resolves spatially regulated cellular heterogeneity together with the critical signaling that underlies homeostasis will help to establish new therapeutic strategies for IVD degeneration in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Gan
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China ,grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jian He
- grid.410740.60000 0004 1803 4911State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Zhu
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengyang Xu
- grid.410740.60000 0004 1803 4911State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhong Wang
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Yan
- grid.410740.60000 0004 1803 4911State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ou Hu
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhijie Bai
- grid.410740.60000 0004 1803 4911State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Chen
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yangli Xie
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Min Jin
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Shuo Huang
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Bing Liu
- grid.410740.60000 0004 1803 4911State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.258164.c0000 0004 1790 3548Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Liu
- grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China ,grid.410570.70000 0004 1760 6682State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
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Spatially defined single-cell transcriptional profiling characterizes diverse chondrocyte subtypes and nucleus pulposus progenitors in human intervertebral discs. Bone Res 2021; 9:37. [PMID: 34400611 PMCID: PMC8368097 DOI: 10.1038/s41413-021-00163-z 10.1038/s41413-021-00163-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of the cellular heterogeneity and molecular mechanisms underlying the development, homeostasis, and disease of human intervertebral disks (IVDs) remains challenging. Here, the transcriptomic landscape of 108 108 IVD cells was mapped using single-cell RNA sequencing of three main compartments from young and adult healthy IVDs, including the nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus, and cartilage endplate (CEP). The chondrocyte subclusters were classified based on their potential regulatory, homeostatic, and effector functions in extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. Notably, in the NP, a PROCR+ resident progenitor population showed enriched colony-forming unit-fibroblast (CFU-F) activity and trilineage differentiation capacity. Finally, intercellular crosstalk based on signaling network analysis uncovered that the PDGF and TGF-β cascades are important cues in the NP microenvironment. In conclusion, a single-cell transcriptomic atlas that resolves spatially regulated cellular heterogeneity together with the critical signaling that underlies homeostasis will help to establish new therapeutic strategies for IVD degeneration in the clinic.
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Gan Y, He J, Zhu J, Xu Z, Wang Z, Yan J, Hu O, Bai Z, Chen L, Xie Y, Jin M, Huang S, Liu B, Liu P. Spatially defined single-cell transcriptional profiling characterizes diverse chondrocyte subtypes and nucleus pulposus progenitors in human intervertebral discs. Bone Res 2021; 9:37. [PMID: 34400611 PMCID: PMC8368097 DOI: 10.1038/s41413-021-00163-z+10.1038/s41413-021-00163-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of the cellular heterogeneity and molecular mechanisms underlying the development, homeostasis, and disease of human intervertebral disks (IVDs) remains challenging. Here, the transcriptomic landscape of 108 108 IVD cells was mapped using single-cell RNA sequencing of three main compartments from young and adult healthy IVDs, including the nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus, and cartilage endplate (CEP). The chondrocyte subclusters were classified based on their potential regulatory, homeostatic, and effector functions in extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. Notably, in the NP, a PROCR+ resident progenitor population showed enriched colony-forming unit-fibroblast (CFU-F) activity and trilineage differentiation capacity. Finally, intercellular crosstalk based on signaling network analysis uncovered that the PDGF and TGF-β cascades are important cues in the NP microenvironment. In conclusion, a single-cell transcriptomic atlas that resolves spatially regulated cellular heterogeneity together with the critical signaling that underlies homeostasis will help to establish new therapeutic strategies for IVD degeneration in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Gan
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jian He
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengyang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhong Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ou Hu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhijie Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yangli Xie
- Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Min Jin
- Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Shuo Huang
- Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Bing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China.
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The Cellular Composition of Bovine Coccygeal Intervertebral Discs: A Comprehensive Single-Cell RNAseq Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094917
expr 996488947 + 961598850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and its medical consequences is still one of the leading causes of morbidity worldwide. To support potential regenerative treatments for degenerated IVDs, we sought to deconvolute the cell composition of the nucleus pulposus (NP) and the annulus fibrosus (AF) of bovine intervertebral discs. Bovine calf tails have been extensively used in intervertebral disc research as a readily available source of NP and AF material from healthy and young IVDs. We used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) coupled to bulk RNA sequencing (RNAseq) to unravel the cell populations in these two structures and analyze developmental changes across the rostrocaudal axis. By integrating the scRNAseq data with the bulk RNAseq data to stabilize the clustering results of our study, we identified 27 NP structure/tissue specific genes and 24 AF structure/tissue specific genes. From our scRNAseq results, we could deconvolute the heterogeneous cell populations in both the NP and the AF. In the NP, we detected a notochordal-like cell cluster and a progenitor stem cell cluster. In the AF, we detected a stem cell-like cluster, a cluster with a predominantly fibroblast-like phenotype and a potential endothelial progenitor cluster. Taken together, our results illustrate the cell phenotypic complexity of the AF and NP in the young bovine IVDs.
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Calió M, Gantenbein B, Egli M, Poveda L, Ille F. The Cellular Composition of Bovine Coccygeal Intervertebral Discs: A Comprehensive Single-Cell RNAseq Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094917. [PMID: 34066404 PMCID: PMC8124861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and its medical consequences is still one of the leading causes of morbidity worldwide. To support potential regenerative treatments for degenerated IVDs, we sought to deconvolute the cell composition of the nucleus pulposus (NP) and the annulus fibrosus (AF) of bovine intervertebral discs. Bovine calf tails have been extensively used in intervertebral disc research as a readily available source of NP and AF material from healthy and young IVDs. We used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) coupled to bulk RNA sequencing (RNAseq) to unravel the cell populations in these two structures and analyze developmental changes across the rostrocaudal axis. By integrating the scRNAseq data with the bulk RNAseq data to stabilize the clustering results of our study, we identified 27 NP structure/tissue specific genes and 24 AF structure/tissue specific genes. From our scRNAseq results, we could deconvolute the heterogeneous cell populations in both the NP and the AF. In the NP, we detected a notochordal-like cell cluster and a progenitor stem cell cluster. In the AF, we detected a stem cell-like cluster, a cluster with a predominantly fibroblast-like phenotype and a potential endothelial progenitor cluster. Taken together, our results illustrate the cell phenotypic complexity of the AF and NP in the young bovine IVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Calió
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics & Mechanobiology (TOM), Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (M.C.); (B.G.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Space Biology Group, Institute of Medical Engineering, School of Engineering and Architecture, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 6052 Hergiswil, Switzerland;
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics & Mechanobiology (TOM), Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (M.C.); (B.G.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Egli
- Space Biology Group, Institute of Medical Engineering, School of Engineering and Architecture, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 6052 Hergiswil, Switzerland;
| | - Lucy Poveda
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Fabian Ille
- Space Biology Group, Institute of Medical Engineering, School of Engineering and Architecture, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 6052 Hergiswil, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-41-349-36-15
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Wang J, Huang Y, Huang L, Shi K, Wang J, Zhu C, Li L, Zhang L, Feng G, Liu L, Song Y. Novel biomarkers of intervertebral disc cells and evidence of stem cells in the intervertebral disc. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2021; 29:389-401. [PMID: 33338640 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rat intervertebral disc (IVD) is one of the most commonly used and cost-effective alternative models for human IVD. Many IVD related clinical studies need to be pre-tested on rat IVDs. However, studies on the heterogeneous cell clusters of the rat IVD are inadequate, and a further understanding of the marker genes and cell phenotypes of healthy mature IVD cells is essential. METHODS In this study, we used the 10X Genomics technology to analyze the single-cell transcriptome of purified wild-type rat IVDs. RESULTS We identified potentially new gene markers of IVDs via single-cell sequencing. Based on the unsupervised cluster analysis of 13,578 single-cell transcripts, 3 known IVD cell types were identified. We provided a complete single-cell gene expression map of the IVD. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence images of rat disc sections confirmed the new marker genes of all cell types. One group of heterologous cell groups expressed multi-functional stem cell (MSC)-specific genes, indicating the stem cell potential of IVD cells. CONCLUSION We provided the phenotype and marker genes of IVD cells at the single-cell level, reconfirmed existing data, and proposed new marker genes, including MSC marker genes. By identifying more accurate target cells and genes, our results pave the way for further study of the response of individual disc cells to disease states and provide the basis for future disc regeneration therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Y Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - L Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - K Shi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - J Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - C Zhu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - L Li
- Department of Science and Technology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - L Zhang
- Analytical and Testing Center, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
| | - G Feng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - L Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Y Song
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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Binch ALA, Fitzgerald JC, Growney EA, Barry F. Cell-based strategies for IVD repair: clinical progress and translational obstacles. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2021; 17:158-175. [PMID: 33526926 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-00568-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a major cause of low back pain, a prevalent and chronic condition that has a striking effect on quality of life. Currently, no approved pharmacological interventions or therapies are available that prevent the progressive destruction of the IVD; however, regenerative strategies are emerging that aim to modify the disease. Progress has been made in defining promising new treatments for disc disease, but considerable challenges remain along the entire translational spectrum, from understanding disease mechanism to useful interpretation of clinical trials, which make it difficult to achieve a unified understanding. These challenges include: an incomplete appreciation of the mechanisms of disc degeneration; a lack of standardized approaches in preclinical testing; in the context of cell therapy, a distinct lack of cohesion regarding the cell types being tested, the tissue source, expansion conditions and dose; the absence of guidelines regarding disease classification and patient stratification for clinical trial inclusion; and an incomplete understanding of the mechanisms underpinning therapeutic responses to cell delivery. This Review discusses current approaches to disc regeneration, with a particular focus on cell-based therapeutic strategies, including ongoing challenges, and attempts to provide a framework to interpret current data and guide future investigational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbie L A Binch
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Joan C Fitzgerald
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Emily A Growney
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Frank Barry
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
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Tang S, Salazar-Puerta A, Richards J, Khan S, Hoyland JA, Gallego-Perez D, Walter B, Higuita-Castro N, Purmessur D. Non-viral reprogramming of human nucleus pulposus cells with FOXF1 via extracellular vesicle delivery: an in vitro and in vivo study. Eur Cell Mater 2021; 41:90-107. [PMID: 33465243 PMCID: PMC8514169 DOI: 10.22203/ecm.v041a07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is characterized by decreased cellularity and proteoglycan synthesis and increased inflammation, catabolism, and neural/vascular ingrowth. Regenerative methods for IVD degeneration are largely cell-therapy-based or involve viral vectors, which are associated with mutagenesis and undesired immune responses. The present study used bulk electroporation and engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) to deliver forkhead-box F1 (FOXF1) mRNA to degenerate human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells as a minimally invasive therapeutic strategy for IVD regeneration. Bulk electroporation was used to investigate FOXF1 effects on human NP cells during a 4-week culture in 3D agarose constructs. Engineered EV delivery of FOXF1 into human IVD cells in monolayer was determined, with subsequent in vivo validation in a pilot mouse IVD puncture model. FOXF1 transfection significantly altered gene expression by upregulating healthy NP markers [FOXF1, keratin 19 (KRT19)], decreasing inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1β, -6], catabolic enzymes [metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13)] and nerve growth factor (NGF), with significant increases in glycosaminoglycan accumulation in human NP cells. Engineered EVs loaded with FOXF1 demonstrated successful encapsulation of FOXF1 cargo and effective uptake by human NP cells cultured in monolayer. Injection of FOXF1-loaded EVs into the mouse IVD in vivo resulted in a significant upregulation of FOXF1 and Brachyury, compared to controls at 7 d post-injection, with no evidence of cytotoxicity. This is the first study to demonstrate non-viral delivery of FOXF1 and reprogramming of human NP cells in vitro and mouse IVD cells in vivo. This strategy represents a non-addictive approach for treating IVD degeneration and associated back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - D Purmessur
- 3155 Biomedical and Materials Engineering Complex, 140 W. 19th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210,
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42
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Morris H, Gonçalves CF, Dudek M, Hoyland J, Meng QJ. Tissue physiology revolving around the clock: circadian rhythms as exemplified by the intervertebral disc. Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 80:828-839. [PMID: 33397731 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-219515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Circadian clocks in the brain and peripheral tissues temporally coordinate local physiology to align with the 24 hours rhythmic environment through light/darkness, rest/activity and feeding/fasting cycles. Circadian disruptions (during ageing, shift work and jet-lag) have been proposed as a risk factor for degeneration and disease of tissues, including the musculoskeletal system. The intervertebral disc (IVD) in the spine separates the bony vertebrae and permits movement of the spinal column. IVD degeneration is highly prevalent among the ageing population and is a leading cause of lower back pain. The IVD is known to experience diurnal changes in loading patterns driven by the circadian rhythm in rest/activity cycles. In recent years, emerging evidence indicates the existence of molecular circadian clocks within the IVD, disruption to which accelerates tissue ageing and predispose animals to IVD degeneration. The cell-intrinsic circadian clocks in the IVD control key aspects of physiology and pathophysiology by rhythmically regulating the expression of ~3.5% of the IVD transcriptome, allowing cells to cope with the drastic biomechanical and chemical changes that occur throughout the day. Indeed, epidemiological studies on long-term shift workers have shown an increased incidence of lower back pain. In this review, we summarise recent findings of circadian rhythms in health and disease, with the IVD as an exemplar tissue system. We focus on rhythmic IVD functions and discuss implications of utilising biological timing mechanisms to improve tissue health and mitigate degeneration. These findings may have broader implications in chronic rheumatic conditions, given the recent findings of musculoskeletal circadian clocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honor Morris
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Cátia F Gonçalves
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Michal Dudek
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Judith Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK .,NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Qing-Jun Meng
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK .,Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Nucleus Pulposus Cell Conditioned Medium Promotes Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation into Nucleus Pulposus-Like Cells under Hypoxic Conditions. Stem Cells Int 2020; 2020:8882549. [PMID: 33424982 PMCID: PMC7773475 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8882549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a major physical and socioeconomic challenge worldwide. Nucleus pulposus (NP) is directly associated with LBP due to intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. IVD degeneration is mainly caused by structural and matrix-related changes within the IVD occurring during aging and degeneration. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into multiple mesenchymal lineages under specific stimulatory conditions. This study is aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of the nucleus pulposus cell (NPC) conditioned medium for promoting the expression of MSCs and at confirming the expression of healthy NP phenotypic markers recently recommended by the Spine Research Interest Group. Expression was investigated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. qPCR and western blotting demonstrated significant upregulation of NP marker expression in MSCs cultured under hypoxic conditions and treated with the 50% or 100% NPC conditioned medium, compared with those cultured under normoxic conditions. Upregulation was highest in the presence of the 100% NPC conditioned medium compared with the control group (aggrecan, p < 0.01; brachyury, p < 0.05; collagen II, p < 0.001; KRT8, p < 0.01; KRT19, p < 0.001; and Shh, p < 0.01). The expression levels of genes in MSCs treated with the 50% NPC conditioned medium also showed upregulation compared with the control group (collagen II, p < 0.05; KRT8, p < 0.05; and KRT19, p < 0.01). These findings suggested that the NPC conditioned medium stimulated MSC differentiation into an NP-like phenotype with distinct characteristics. The results could inform strategies for IVD regeneration.
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Fearing BV, Speer JE, Jing L, Kalathil A, P. Kelly M, M. Buchowski J, P. Zebala L, Luhmann S, C. Gupta M, A. Setton L. Verteporfin treatment controls morphology, phenotype, and global gene expression for cells of the human nucleus pulposus. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1111. [PMID: 33392449 PMCID: PMC7770208 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells of the nucleus pulposus (NP) are essential contributors to extracellular matrix synthesis and function of the intervertebral disc. With age and degeneration, the NP becomes stiffer and more dehydrated, which is associated with a loss of phenotype and biosynthetic function for its resident NP cells. Also, with aging, the NP cell undergoes substantial morphological changes from a rounded shape with pronounced vacuoles in the neonate and juvenile, to one that is more flattened and spread with a loss of vacuoles. Here, we make use of the clinically relevant pharmacological treatment verteporfin (VP), previously identified as a disruptor of yes-associated protein-TEA domain family member-binding domain (TEAD) signaling, to promote morphological changes in adult human NP cells in order to study variations in gene expression related to differences in cell shape. Treatment of adult, degenerative human NP cells with VP caused a shift in morphology from a spread, fibroblastic-like shape to a rounded, clustered morphology with decreased transcriptional activity of TEAD and serum-response factor. These changes were accompanied by an increased expression of vacuoles, NP-specific gene markers, and biosynthetic activity. The contemporaneous observation of VP-induced changes in cell shape and prominent, time-dependent changes within the transcriptome of NP cells occurred over all timepoints in culture. Enriched gene sets with the transition to VP-induced cell rounding suggest a major role for cell adhesion, cytoskeletal remodeling, vacuolar lumen, and MAPK activity in the NP phenotypic and functional response to changes in cell shape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey V. Fearing
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryAtrium Health Musculoskeletal InstituteCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Julie E. Speer
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Liufang Jing
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Aravind Kalathil
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Michael P. Kelly
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Jacob M. Buchowski
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Lukas P. Zebala
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Scott Luhmann
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Munish C. Gupta
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Lori A. Setton
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
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Fernandes LM, Khan NM, Trochez CM, Duan M, Diaz-Hernandez ME, Presciutti SM, Gibson G, Drissi H. Single-cell RNA-seq identifies unique transcriptional landscapes of human nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15263. [PMID: 32943704 PMCID: PMC7499307 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72261-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) disease (IDD) is a complex, multifactorial disease. While various aspects of IDD progression have been reported, the underlying molecular pathways and transcriptional networks that govern the maintenance of healthy nucleus pulposus (NP) and annulus fibrosus (AF) have not been fully elucidated. We defined the transcriptome map of healthy human IVD by performing single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) in primary AF and NP cells isolated from non-degenerated lumbar disc. Our systematic and comprehensive analyses revealed distinct genetic architecture of human NP and AF compartments and identified 2,196 differentially expressed genes. Gene enrichment analysis showed that SFRP1, BIRC5, CYTL1, ESM1 and CCNB2 genes were highly expressed in the AF cells; whereas, COL2A1, DSC3, COL9A3, COL11A1, and ANGPTL7 were mostly expressed in the NP cells. Further, functional annotation clustering analysis revealed the enrichment of receptor signaling pathways genes in AF cells, while NP cells showed high expression of genes related to the protein synthesis machinery. Subsequent interaction network analysis revealed a structured network of extracellular matrix genes in NP compartments. Our regulatory network analysis identified FOXM1 and KDM4E as signature transcription factor of AF and NP respectively, which might be involved in the regulation of core genes of AF and NP transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo M Fernandes
- Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30033, USA.,Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Nazir M Khan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30033, USA.,Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Camila M Trochez
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Meixue Duan
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Martha E Diaz-Hernandez
- Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30033, USA.,Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Steven M Presciutti
- Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30033, USA.,Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Greg Gibson
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hicham Drissi
- Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30033, USA. .,Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA.
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Veras MA, Lim YJ, Kuljanin M, Lajoie GA, Urquhart BL, Séguin CA. Protocol for parallel proteomic and metabolomic analysis of mouse intervertebral disc tissues. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1099. [PMID: 33015574 PMCID: PMC7524214 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The comprehensiveness of data collected by "omics" modalities has demonstrated the ability to drastically transform our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of chronic, complex diseases such as musculoskeletal pathologies, how biomarkers are identified, and how therapeutic targets are developed. Standardization of protocols will enable comparisons between findings reported by multiple research groups and move the application of these technologies forward. Herein, we describe a protocol for parallel proteomic and metabolomic analysis of mouse intervertebral disc (IVD) tissues, building from the combined expertise of our collaborative team. This protocol covers dissection of murine IVD tissues, sample isolation, and data analysis for both proteomics and metabolomics applications. The protocol presented below was optimized to maximize the utility of a mouse model for "omics" applications, accounting for the challenges associated with the small starting quantity of sample due to small tissue size as well as the extracellular matrix-rich nature of the tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Veras
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry The University of Western Ontario London Ontario Canada
- Bone and Joint Institute The University of Western Ontario London Ontario Canada
| | - Yong J Lim
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry The University of Western Ontario London Ontario Canada
| | - Miljan Kuljanin
- Department of Cell Biology Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Gilles A Lajoie
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry The University of Western Ontario London Ontario Canada
| | - Bradley L Urquhart
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry The University of Western Ontario London Ontario Canada
| | - Cheryle A Séguin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry The University of Western Ontario London Ontario Canada
- Bone and Joint Institute The University of Western Ontario London Ontario Canada
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Tessier S, Risbud MV. Understanding embryonic development for cell-based therapies of intervertebral disc degeneration: Toward an effort to treat disc degeneration subphenotypes. Dev Dyn 2020; 250:302-317. [PMID: 32564440 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low back and neck pain are associated with intervertebral disc degeneration and are major contributors to the global burden of disability. New evidence now suggests that disc degeneration comprises a spectrum of subphenotypes influenced by genetic background, age, and environmental factors, which may be contributing to the mixed outcomes seen in clinical trials of cell-based therapies that aim to treat disc degeneration. This problem is further compounded by the fact that disc degeneration and aging coincide with an exhaustion of endogenous progenitor cells, imposing limitations on the regenerative capacity of the disc. At the bench-side, current work is focused on applying our knowledge of embryonic disc development to direct and refine differentiation of adult and human-induced pluripotent stem cells into notochord-like and nucleus pulposus-like cells for use in novel cell-based therapies. Accordingly, this review presents the salient features of intervertebral disc development, post-natal maintenance, and regeneration, with emphasis on recent advancements. We also discuss how a stratified approach can be undertaken for the development of future cell-based therapies to bring emerging subphenotypes into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Tessier
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Makarand V Risbud
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Graduate Program in Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Rajasekaran S, Tangavel C, Soundararajan DCR, Nayagam SM, Matchado MS, Muthurajan R, Anand KSSV, Rajendran S, Shetty AP, Kanna RM, Kuppamuthu D. Proteomic Signatures of Healthy Intervertebral Discs From Organ Donors: A Comparison With Previous Studies on Discs From Scoliosis, Animals, and Trauma. Neurospine 2020; 17:426-442. [PMID: 32615701 PMCID: PMC7338947 DOI: 10.14245/ns.2040056.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To catalog and characterize the proteome of normal human intervertebral disc (IVD). METHODS Nine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) normal IVDs were harvested from 9 different brain dead yet alive voluntary organ donors and were subjected to electrospray ionization-liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-LC-MS/MS) acquisition. RESULTS A total of 1,116 proteins were identified. Functional enrichment analysis tool DAVID ver. 6.8 categorized: extracellular proteins (38%), intracellular (31%), protein-containing complex (13%), organelle (9%), membrane proteins (6%), supramolecular complex (2%), and 1% in the cell junction. Molecular function revealed: binding activity (42%), catalytic activity (31%), regulatory activity (14%), and structural activity (7%). Molecular transducer, transporter, and transcription regulator activity together contributed to 6%. A comparison of the proteins obtained from this study to others in the literature showed a wide variation in content with only 3% of bovine, 5% of murine, 54% of human scoliotic discs, and 10.2% of discs adjacent to lumbar burst fractures common to our study of organ donors. Between proteins reported in scoliosis and lumbar fracture patients, only 13.51% were common, further signifying the contrast amongst the various MRI normal IVD samples. CONCLUSION The proteome of "healthy" human IVDs has been defined, and our results show that proteomic data on IVDs obtained from scoliosis, fracture patients, and cadavers lack normal physiological conditions and should not be used as biological controls despite normal MRI findings. This questions the validity of previous studies that have used such discs as controls for analyzing the pathomechanisms of disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Raveendran Muthurajan
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India
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Chen Y, Tang L. Stem Cell Senescence: the Obstacle of the Treatment of Degenerative Disk Disease. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 14:654-668. [PMID: 31490764 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x14666190906163253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) has a pivotal role in the maintenance of flexible motion. IVD degeneration is one of the primary causes of low back pain and disability, which seriously influences patients' health, and increases the family and social economic burden. Recently, stem cell therapy has been proven to be more effective on IVD degeneration disease. However, stem cell senescence is the limiting factor in the IVD degeneration treatment. Senescent stem cells have a negative effect on the self-repair on IVD degeneration. In this review, we delineate that the factors such as telomerase shortening, DNA damage, oxidative stress, microenvironment and exosomes will induce stem cell aging. Recent studies tried to delay the aging of stem cells by regulating the expression of aging-related genes and proteins, changing the activity of telomerase, improving the survival microenvironment of stem cells and drug treatment. Understanding the mechanism of stem cell aging and exploring new approaches to delay or reverse stem cell aging asks for research on the repair of the degenerated disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Liling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
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NOTO Transcription Factor Directs Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Mesendoderm Progenitors to a Notochordal Fate. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020509. [PMID: 32102328 PMCID: PMC7072849 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The founder cells of the Nucleus pulposus, the centre of the intervertebral disc, originate in the embryonic notochord. After birth, mature notochordal cells (NC) are identified as key regulators of disc homeostasis. Better understanding of their biology has great potential in delaying the onset of disc degeneration or as a regenerative-cell source for disc repair. Using human pluripotent stem cells, we developed a two-step method to generate a stable NC-like population with a distinct molecular signature. Time-course analysis of lineage-specific markers shows that WNT pathway activation and transfection of the notochord-related transcription factor NOTO are sufficient to induce high levels of mesendoderm progenitors and favour their commitment toward the notochordal lineage instead of paraxial and lateral mesodermal or endodermal lineages. This study results in the identification of NOTO-regulated genes including some that are found expressed in human healthy disc tissue and highlights NOTO function in coordinating the gene network to human notochord differentiation.
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