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Tang SN, Bonilla AF, Chahine NO, Colbath AC, Easley JT, Grad S, Haglund L, Le Maitre CL, Leung V, McCoy AM, Purmessur D, Tang SY, Zeiter S, Smith LJ. Controversies in spine research: Organ culture versus in vivo models for studies of the intervertebral disc. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1235. [PMID: 36601369 PMCID: PMC9799089 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration is a common cause of low back pain, the leading cause of disability worldwide. Appropriate preclinical models for intervertebral disc research are essential to achieving a better understanding of underlying pathophysiology and for the development, evaluation, and translation of more effective treatments. To this end, in vivo animal and ex vivo organ culture models are both widely used by spine researchers; however, the relative strengths and weaknesses of these two approaches are a source of ongoing controversy. In this article, members from the Spine and Preclinical Models Sections of the Orthopedic Research Society, including experts in both basic and translational spine research, present contrasting arguments in support of in vivo animal models versus ex vivo organ culture models for studies of the disc, supported by a comprehensive review of the relevant literature. The objective is to provide a deeper understanding of the respective advantages and limitations of these approaches, and advance the field toward a consensus with respect to appropriate model selection and implementation. We conclude that complementary use of several model types and leveraging the unique advantages of each is likely to result in the highest impact research in most instances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley N. Tang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Andres F. Bonilla
- Preclinical Surgical Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColoradoUSA
| | - Nadeen O. Chahine
- Departments of Orthopedic Surgery and Biomedical EngineeringColumbia UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Aimee C. Colbath
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineCornell UniversityIthacaNew YorkUSA
| | - Jeremiah T. Easley
- Preclinical Surgical Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColoradoUSA
| | | | | | | | - Victor Leung
- Department of Orthopaedics and TraumatologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongSARChina
| | - Annette M. McCoy
- Department of Veterinary Clinical MedicineUniversity of IllinoisUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Simon Y. Tang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St LouisSt LouisMissouriUSA
| | | | - Lachlan J. Smith
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and NeurosurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research CenterCorporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical CenterPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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2
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McMorran JG, Gregory DE. The Influence of Axial Compression on the Cellular and Mechanical Function of Spinal Tissues; Emphasis on the Nucleus Pulposus and Annulus Fibrosus: A Review. J Biomech Eng 2021; 143:050802. [PMID: 33454730 DOI: 10.1115/1.4049749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In light of the correlation between chronic back pain and intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, this literature review seeks to illustrate the importance of the hydraulic response across the nucleus pulposus (NP)-annulus fibrosus (AF) interface, by synthesizing current information regarding injurious biomechanics of the spine, stemming from axial compression. Damage to vertebrae, endplates (EPs), the NP, and the AF, can all arise from axial compression, depending on the segment's posture, the manner in which it is loaded, and the physiological state of tissue. Therefore, this movement pattern was selected to illustrate the importance of the bracing effect of a pressurized NP on the AF, and how injuries interrupting support to the AF may contribute to IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- John G McMorran
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2 L 3C5
| | - Diane E Gregory
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2 L 3C5; Department of Health Sciences, Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2 L 3C5
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3
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Zhang C, Zhao X, Ao Y, Cao J, Yang L, Duan X. Proliferation ability of particulated juvenile allograft cartilage. J Orthop Surg Res 2021; 16:56. [PMID: 33446204 PMCID: PMC7809761 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-020-02199-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Particulated juvenile allograft cartilage (PJAC) has a good short-term clinical efficacy in repairing articular cartilage defects, but the proliferation ability of PJAC and the biological characteristics of transplanted cells after transplantation are still unclear. Purpose To study the cartilage proliferation ability of PJAC in repairing full-thickness cartilage defects and the reasons for proliferation to provide experimental evidence for its clinical application. Study design Controlled laboratory study. Methods Twenty Guizhou minipigs were randomly divided into the experimental group and control group. In all minipigs, an 8-mm cylindrical full-thickness cartilage defect was created in the femoral trochlea of one knee. The experimental group received PJAC transplantation from five juvenile donors of Guizhou minipigs (PJAC group; n = 10) and the control group received transplantation of autologous cartilage chips (ACC group; n = 10). Both groups were followed at 1 and 3 months after surgery, immunohistochemical evaluation of the tissue sections Ki-67 and Lin28 was conducted, the positive rate was calculated according to the staining, and the proliferation ability of PJAC was analyzed. Results All 20 Guizhou minipigs were followed, and there was no infection or incision healing disorder after surgery. By Ki-67 and Lin28 immunohistochemical tests, the positive rate of Ki-67 was 88.9 ± 0.2% in the PJAC group and 28.3 ± 3.6% in the ACC group at 1 month, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05); the positive rate of Lin28 was 34.6 ± 3.3% in the PJAC group and 7.6 ± 1.4% in the ACC group at 1 month, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). At 3 months, the positive rates of Ki-67 in the PJAC group and ACC group were 53.6 ± 6.9% and 1.97 ± 0.3%, respectively (P < 0.05); the positive rates of Lin28 were 86.6 ± 3.3% and 1.4 ± 0.3%, respectively (P < 0.01). Conclusion A large animal model was established with Guizhou minipigs, and the expressions of Ki-67 protein and Lin28 protein detected by immunohistochemistry in the repaired transplanted tissue of the PJAC group were stronger than those of adult cartilage. The proliferation of PJAC within 3 months of transplantation was stronger than that of adult cartilage. The enhanced expression of Lin28 may be one of the mechanisms by which PJAC achieved stronger proliferation ability than adult cartilage. PJAC technology has shown good application prospects for repairing cartilage defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changgui Zhang
- Center for Joint Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xingyu Zhao
- Center for Joint Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yunong Ao
- Center for Joint Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jin Cao
- Center for Joint Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Center for Joint Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xiaojun Duan
- Center for Joint Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
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4
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Xiao ZF, He JB, Su GY, Chen MH, Hou Y, Chen SD, Lin DK. Osteoporosis of the vertebra and osteochondral remodeling of the endplate causes intervertebral disc degeneration in ovariectomized mice. Arthritis Res Ther 2018; 20:207. [PMID: 30201052 PMCID: PMC6131954 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-018-1701-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies on the relationship between osteoporosis and intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) are inconsistent. Therefore, we assessed whether IVDD is affected by vertebral osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice and investigated the underlying pathogenesis of IVDD related to osteoporosis. Methods Thirty healthy female C57BL/6 J mice aged 8 weeks were randomly divided into two groups: a control group (sham operation, n = 15) and an ovariectomy group (OVX; bilateral ovariectomy, n = 15). At 12 weeks after surgery, the bone quantity and microstructure in the lumbar vertebra and endplate as well as the volume of the L4/5 disc space were evaluated by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). The occurrence and characteristic alterations of IVDD were identified via histopathological staining. The osteoclasts were detected using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. Type II collagen (Col II), osterix (OSX), osteopontin (OPN), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in the intervertebral disc were detected by immunohistochemical analysis. Results OVX significantly increased the body weight and decreased the uterus weight. Micro-CT analysis showed that osteoporosis of the vertebra and osteochondral remodeling of the endplate were accompanied by an increase in the endplate porosity and a decrease in the disc volume in the OVX group. Likewise, histological evaluation revealed that IVDD occurred at 12 weeks after ovariectomy, with features of endochondral ossification of the endplate, loose and broken annulus fibrosus, and degeneration of nucleus pulposus. TRAP staining showed that numerous active osteoclasts appeared in the subchondral bone and cartilaginous endplate of OVX mice, whereas osteoclasts were rarely detected in control mice. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that the expression of osterix was significantly increased, notably in the endplate of OVX mice. In addition, Col II was decreased in the ossification endplate and the degenerative annulus fibrosus, where OPN and VEGF expressions were elevated in OVX mice. Conclusions OVX induced vertebral osteoporosis and osteochondral remodeling of the cartilaginous endplate contributing to the angiogenesis and an increase in porosity of the bone-cartilage surface, and also affected the matrix metabolism which consequently had detrimental effects on the intervertebral disc. Our study suggests that preserving the structural integrity and the function of the adjacent structures, including the vertebrae and endplates, may protect the disc against degeneration. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13075-018-1701-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Feng Xiao
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 111, Dade Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510120, China.,The Laboratory Affiliated to Orthopaedics and Traumatology of Chinese Medicine of Linnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China.,Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Jian-Bo He
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 111, Dade Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510120, China.,The Laboratory Affiliated to Orthopaedics and Traumatology of Chinese Medicine of Linnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China.,Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Guo-Yi Su
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 111, Dade Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510120, China.,Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Mei-Hui Chen
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 111, Dade Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510120, China.,The Laboratory Affiliated to Orthopaedics and Traumatology of Chinese Medicine of Linnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China.,Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Yu Hou
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 111, Dade Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510120, China.,Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Shu-Dong Chen
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 111, Dade Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510120, China.,Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Ding-Kun Lin
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 111, Dade Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510120, China. .,The Laboratory Affiliated to Orthopaedics and Traumatology of Chinese Medicine of Linnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China. .,Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
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5
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Palacio-Mancheno PE, Evashwick-Rogler TW, Laudier DM, Purmessur D, Iatridis JC. Hyperosmolarity induces notochordal cell differentiation with aquaporin3 upregulation and reduced N-cadherin expression. J Orthop Res 2018; 36:788-798. [PMID: 28853179 PMCID: PMC5832547 DOI: 10.1002/jor.23715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The nucleus pulposus (NP) of intervertebral discs (IVD) undergoes dramatic changes with aging including loss of its gelatinous structure and large, vacuolated notochordal cells (NCs) in favor of a matrix-rich structure populated by small NP cells (sNPCs). NP maturation also involves a loading-pattern shift from pressurization to matrix deformations, and these events are thought to predispose to degeneration. Little is known of the triggering events and cellular alterations involved with NP maturation, which remains a fundamental open spinal mechanobiology question. A mouse IVD organ culture model was used to test the hypotheses that hyperosmotic overloading will induce NP maturation with transition of NCs to sNPCs while also increasing matrix accumulation and altering osmoregulatory and mechanotransductive proteins. Results indicated that static hyperosmolarity, as might occur during growth, caused maturation of NCs to sNPCs and involved a cellular differentiation process since known NC markers (cytokeratin-8, -19, and sonic hedgehog) persisted without increased cell apoptosis. Osmosensitive channels Aquaporin 3 (Aqp3) and transient receptor potential vanilloid-4 (TRPV4) expression were both modified with altered osmolarity, but increased Aqp3 with hyperosmolarity was associated with NC to sNPC differentiation. NC to sNPC differentiation was accompanied by a shift in cellular mechanotransduction proteins with decreased N-cadherin adhesions and increased Connexin 43 connexons. We conclude that hyperosmotic overloading can promote NC differentiation into sNPCs. This study identified osmolarity as a triggering mechanism for notochordal cell differentiation with associated shifts in osmoregulatory and mechanotransductive proteins that are likely to play important roles in intervertebral disc aging. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:788-798, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Damien M. Laudier
- Dept. of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Dept. of Biomedical Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - James C. Iatridis
- Dept. of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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6
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Lee JS, Jeong SW, Cho SW, Juhn JP, Kim KW. Relationship between Initial Telomere Length, Initial Telomerase Activity, Age, and Replicative Capacity of Nucleus Pulposus Chondrocytes in Human Intervertebral Discs: What Is a Predictor of Replicative Potential? PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144177. [PMID: 26633809 PMCID: PMC4669191 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that telomere length (TL), telomerase activity (TA), and age are related to the replicative potential of human nucleus pulposus chondrocytes (NPCs). However, it has not yet been established if any of these factors can serve as predictors of the replicative potential of NPCs. To establish predictors of the replicative potential of NPCs, we evaluated potential relationships between replicative capacity of NPCs, initial TL (telomere length at the first passage), initial TA (telomerase activity at the first passage), and age. Nucleus pulposus specimens were obtained from 14 patients of various ages undergoing discectomy. NPCs were serially cultivated until the end of their replicative lifespans. Relationships among cumulative population doubling level (PDL), initial TL, initial TA, and age were analyzed. Initial TA was negatively correlated with age (r = -0.674, P = 0.008). However, no correlation between initial TL and age was observed. Cumulative PDL was also negatively correlated with age (r = -0.585, P = 0.028). Although the cumulative PDL appeared to increase with initial TL or initial TA, this trend was not statistically significant. In conclusion, age is the sole predictor of the replicative potential of human NPCs, and replicative potential decreases with age. Initial TL and initial TA are not predictors of replicative potential, and can serve only as reference values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Seok Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Orthopedic Research, Medical Research Institute, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- * E-mail:
| | - Seo-Won Jeong
- Department of Orthopedic Research, Medical Research Institute, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Wook Cho
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joon-Pyo Juhn
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki-Won Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Orthopedic Research, Medical Research Institute, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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7
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Gulati T, Chung SA, Wei AQ, Diwan AD. Localization of bone morphogenetic protein 13 in human intervertebral disc and its molecular and functional effects in vitro in 3D culture. J Orthop Res 2015; 33:1769-75. [PMID: 26134557 DOI: 10.1002/jor.22965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Our laboratory has demonstrated that bone morphogenetic protein 13 prevented the effects of annular injury in an ovine model, maintaining intervertebral disc height, cell numbers and increasing extracellular matrix production compared to degenerated controls. The present study sought to examine the molecular effects of bone morphogenetic protein 13 on human degenerated disc cells and localize its expression in both human degenerate and scoliotic disc tissue. Effect of bone morphogenetic protein 13 on human derived nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus and endplate cells cultured in alginate beads was evaluated by changes in proteoglycan and collagen content. Migratory potential of disc cells towards bone morphogenetic protein 13 was also examined. Bone morphogenetic protein 13 induced significant proteoglycan accumulation in nucleus (18%), annulus (21%) and endplate (23%) cells cultured in alginate beads (p<0.05) compared to controls. Further bone morphogenetic protein 13 increased collagen I and II protein expression in nucleus and endplate cells. Nucleus cells displayed a significant chemotactic response towards bone morphogenetic protein 13. The endogenous expression of bone morphogenetic protein 13 in degenerate disc tissue was not different to scoliotic disc. Bone morphogenetic protein 13 has the potential to enhance extracellular matrix accumulation and induce cell migration in certain disc cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Twishi Gulati
- Department of Orthopaedic Research, Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sylvia A Chung
- Department of Orthopaedic Research, Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ai-Qun Wei
- Department of Orthopaedic Research, Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ashish D Diwan
- Department of Orthopaedic Research, Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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8
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Feng C, Zhang Y, Yang M, Huang B, Zhou Y. Collagen-DerivedN-Acetylated Proline-Glycine-Proline in Intervertebral Discs Modulates CXCR1/2 Expression and Activation in Cartilage Endplate Stem Cells to Induce Migration and Differentiation Toward a Pro-Inflammatory Phenotype. Stem Cells 2015; 33:3558-68. [PMID: 26302999 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Revised: 07/05/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chencheng Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing People's Republic of China
| | - Minghui Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing People's Republic of China
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9
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Henriksson HB, Papadimitriou N, Tschernitz S, Svala E, Skioldebrand E, Windahl S, Junevik K, Brisby H. Indications of that migration of stem cells is influenced by the extra cellular matrix architecture in the mammalian intervertebral disk region. Tissue Cell 2015; 47:439-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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10
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Wang F, Shi R, Cai F, Wang YT, Wu XT. Stem Cell Approaches to Intervertebral Disc Regeneration: Obstacles from the Disc Microenvironment. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 24:2479-95. [PMID: 26228642 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2015.0158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration results in segmental instability and irritates neural compressive symptoms, such as low back pain and motor deficiency. The transplanting of stem cell into degenerative discs has attracted increasing clinical attention, as a new and proven approach to alleviating disc degeneration and to relieving discogenic pains. Aside from supplementation with stem cells, the IVD itself already contains a pool of stem and progenitor cells. Since the resident disc stem cells are incapable of reversing the pathologic changes that occur during aging and disc degeneration, it has been debated as to whether transplanted stem cells are capable of providing an efficient and durable therapeutic effect, even though there have been positive outcomes in both animal models and in clinical trials. This review aims to decipher the interactions between the stem cell and the disc microenvironment. Within their new niches in the IVD, the exogenous stem cell shows metabolic adaptation to the low-glucose supply, hypoxia, and compressive loadings, but demonstrates little tolerance to the disc-like acidity and hypertonicity. Similarly, the survival of endogenous stem cells is threatened as well by the harsh disc microenvironment, which may exhaust the stem cell resources and restrict the self-repair capacity of a degenerating IVD. To eliminate the intrinsic obstacles within the stressful disc niches, stem cells should be delivered with an injectable scaffold that provides both survival and mechanical support. Quick healing or concretion of the injection injuries, which minimizes stem cell leakage and disturbance to disc homeostasis, is of equal importance toward achieving efficient stem cell-based disc regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University , Nanjing, China .,2 Surgery Research Center, Medical School of Southeast University , Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Shi
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University , Nanjing, China .,2 Surgery Research Center, Medical School of Southeast University , Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Cai
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University , Nanjing, China .,2 Surgery Research Center, Medical School of Southeast University , Nanjing, China
| | - Yun-Tao Wang
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University , Nanjing, China .,2 Surgery Research Center, Medical School of Southeast University , Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Tao Wu
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University , Nanjing, China .,2 Surgery Research Center, Medical School of Southeast University , Nanjing, China
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11
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Pereira CL, Gonçalves RM, Peroglio M, Pattappa G, D'Este M, Eglin D, Barbosa MA, Alini M, Grad S. The effect of hyaluronan-based delivery of stromal cell-derived factor-1 on the recruitment of MSCs in degenerating intervertebral discs. Biomaterials 2014; 35:8144-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2014.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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12
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Wei A, Shen B, Williams L, Diwan A. Mesenchymal stem cells: potential application in intervertebral disc regeneration. Transl Pediatr 2014; 3:71-90. [PMID: 26835326 PMCID: PMC4729108 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2224-4336.2014.03.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low back pain is one of the leading public health problems in developed countries. Degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is a major pathological process implicated in low back pain, which is characterized by cellular apoptosis and senescence with reduced synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM). Currently, there is no clinical therapy targeting the reversal of disc degeneration. Recent advances in cellular and molecular biology have provided an exciting approach to disc regeneration that focuses on the delivery of viable cells to the degenerative disc. Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells with self-renewal capacities and are able to differentiate into diverse specialized cell types, including chondrocyte lineages. The potential of stem cell therapy in disc degeneration is to repopulate the disc with viable cells capable of producing the ECM and restoring damaged tissue. The present literature review summarizes recent advances in basic research and clinical trials of MSCs to provide an outline of the key roles of MSCs therapies in disc repair. The review also discusses the controversies, challenges and therapeutic concepts for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiqun Wei
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Research, Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia ; 2 Department of Cell & Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bojiang Shen
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Research, Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia ; 2 Department of Cell & Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lisa Williams
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Research, Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia ; 2 Department of Cell & Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ashish Diwan
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Research, Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia ; 2 Department of Cell & Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Cartilage derived morphogenetic protein 2 – A potential therapy for intervertebral disc regeneration? Biologicals 2014; 42:65-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2013] [Revised: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 12/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Zhang H, Zhang L, Chen L, Li W, Li F, Chen Q. Stromal cell-derived factor-1 and its receptor CXCR4 are upregulated expression in degenerated intervertebral discs. Int J Med Sci 2014; 11:240-5. [PMID: 24516346 PMCID: PMC3917111 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.7489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although chemokine stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) and its receptor CXCR4 induce degradation of articular cartilage in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA), the association between the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway and degradation of the cartilaginous endplate and nucleus pulposus has not been thoroughly clarified. We investigated the expression of SDF-1 and CXCR4 in intervertebral discs (IVDs). METHODS SDF-1 and CXCR4 levels in human IVDs and the rat L5/6 motion segment were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. SDF-1 staining was quantified using a microscope and Image-Pro Plus software. Integrated optical density (IOD) served as the measurement parameter. The number of CXCR4 immunoreactive cells was expressed as a percentage of the total number of cells. RESULTS SDF-1 and CXCR4 were both expressed in IVDs, and the levels of SDF-1 and CXCR4 were both significantly higher in the degeneration group than in the normal group of human (or rat) discs. Both nucleus pulposus cells and cartilaginous endplate cells expressed the CXCR4 protein. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between the SDF-1 IOD value and the percentage of CXCR4-positive disc cells in the nucleus pulposus and cartilaginous endplate. The SDF-1 IOD values were significantly higher in the outer annular fibrosus and bone/endplate junction region than in the nucleus pulposus and cartilaginous endplate in the rat specimens. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest upregulated expression of SDF-1 and its receptor CXCR4 in degenerated IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Zhang
- 1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- 2. Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Red Cross Hospital, Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 208 East Road, Hangzhou Ring, Hangzhou, China
| | - Linwei Chen
- 1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wanli Li
- 1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fangcai Li
- 1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qixin Chen
- 1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China
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Lv F, Leung VYL, Huang S, Huang Y, Sun Y, Cheung KMC. In search of nucleus pulposus-specific molecular markers. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2013; 53:600-10. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/ket303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Luo Y, Zhang L, Wang WY, Hu QF, Song HP, Su YL, Zhang YZ. Alendronate retards the progression of lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration in ovariectomized rats. Bone 2013; 55:439-48. [PMID: 23500174 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2013.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2012] [Revised: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increasing evidence has revealed a positive correlation between postmenopausal osteoporosis and intervertebral disc degeneration, the underlying mechanism of which might be associated with changes in the vertebral bone and endplate. Alendronate (ALN) can increase bone mass and improve the microstructure of osteoporotic vertebrae, which might be helpful in preserving disc morphology and mechanical properties. This study aims to investigate the effects of ALN on lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration related to osteoporosis using an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model. METHODS Thirty female Sprague-Dawley rats aged 3 months were randomly divided into three groups (with 10 rats each) as follows: the Sham group underwent sham surgery; the OVX + ALN group had twice-a-week subcutaneous injections of ALN (15 μg/kg) for 6 months. The OVX + V group received an equivalent volume of saline solution as placebo post-OVX. After animals were sacrificed at 6 months post-OVX, the L3-6 spinal segments were harvested. Bone mineral density (BMD), micro-CT analysis and biomechanical testing were performed to evaluate the bone quality and microstructural changes in the lumbar vertebral bodies. Histological analysis with van Gieson stain and the histological score were used to identify the characteristics of the degenerative discs. The disc height and the thickness of the cartilage endplate were measured and compared. Immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR measurements for aggrecan, type I collagen, type II collagen, and matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-1, MMP-3 and MMP-13 expressions on the disc were performed to assess the underlying molecular signaling changes in matrix metabolism during intervertebral disc degeneration. RESULTS The OVX + ALN group significantly maintained vertebrae BMD, percent bone volume and biomechanical strength, when compared with the OVX + V group. Histological evaluation suggests that there was no significant difference in disc height between the OVX + ALN and Sham groups, and ALN significantly prevented cartilage endplate thickening and the development of abnormal bony tissues within the cartilage endplate. The histological score in the OVX + ALN group was significantly lower than the OVX + V group, suggesting that ALN treatment was effective in delaying the process of the disc degeneration. The results of molecular analysis revealed a significant increase in aggrecan and type II collagen expressions, but marked reductions in MMP-1, MMP-3 and MMP-13 expressions at both the protein and mRNA levels in the OVX + ALN group. CONCLUSIONS ALN can retard the progression of lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration in OVX rats. The underlying mechanisms might be related to preservation of the structural integrity and function of the adjacent structures, including the vertebrae and endplates, which further links with modulations in extracellular matrix metabolism to protect the disc from degeneration. These results suggest that ALN might be a promising drug agent for preventing lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration related to osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Luo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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Henriksson HB, Lindahl A, Skioldebrand E, Junevik K, Tängemo C, Mattsson J, Brisby H. Similar cellular migration patterns from niches in intervertebral disc and in knee-joint regions detected by in situ labeling: an experimental study in the New Zealand white rabbit. Stem Cell Res Ther 2013; 4:104. [PMID: 24004687 PMCID: PMC3854713 DOI: 10.1186/scrt315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Revised: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Potential stem cell niches (SNs) were recently reported in intervertebral discs (IVDs) and knee joints (KJs) in different mammals (located adjacent to the epiphyseal plate; EP). The aim here was to examine further possible cellular migration and migration directions of cells originating from niches possibly involved in regeneration of cartilaginous tissues in the IVD and in the KJ regions in adult mammals. METHODS In total, 33 rabbits were used in studies A through C. A. IVD cells were sorted; fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) by size (forward scatter; ≤ 10 μm or >10 μm or GDF5+ cells (anti-GDF5 antibody). Sorted cells, labeled with cell tracer (carboxyfluorescein-diacetate-succinimidyl ester; CDFA-SE) were applied on IVD explants in vitro. Migrating cells/distance was evaluated by fluorescence- and confocal-microscopy (FC). B. DNA labeling was performed with BrdU (oral administration). Animals were killed (14 to 56 days), KJs collected, and BrdU+ cells visualized with immunohistochemistry (IHC)/anti-BrdU antibody in SN and articular cartilage (AC). C. Cell tracer: (Fe-nanoparticles: Endorem) were injected into SNs of IVDs (LI-LV) and KJs (tibia). Animals were killed after 2 to 6 weeks. Fe-labeled cells were traced by ferric-iron staining (Prussian blue reaction; Mallory method). RESULTS A. GDF5+ cells and ≤ 10-μm cells displayed the best migration capability in IVD explants. GDF5+ cells were detected at a tissue depth of 1,300 μm (16 days). B. BrdU+ cells were observed in early time points in niches of KJs, and at later time points in AC, indicating a gradual migration of cells. C. Fe+ cells were detected in IVDs; in annulus fibrosus (AF) in 11 of 12 animals and in nucleus pulposus (NP) in two of 12 animals. In AC (tibia), Fe+ cells were detected in six of 12 animals. In the potential migration route (PMR), from niches toward the IVD, Fe+ cells (three of 12 animals) and in PMR toward AC (KJs) (six of 12 animals) were detected. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate similar cellular migration patterns in cartilage regions (IVD and KJs) with migration from stem cell niche areas into the mature cartilaginous tissues of both the KJs and the IVD. These findings of a cellular migration pattern in mature cartilage are of interest from tissue-repair and engineering perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Barreto Henriksson
- Department of Orthopaedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg University, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Lindahl
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Transfusion Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Skioldebrand
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Transfusion Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Katarina Junevik
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Transfusion Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Carolina Tängemo
- Centre for Cellular Imaging, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Mattsson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Helena Brisby
- Department of Orthopaedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg University, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
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Modulation of chondrocyte migration and aggregation by insulin-like growth factor-1 in cultured cartilage. Biotechnol Lett 2012; 35:295-300. [DOI: 10.1007/s10529-012-1071-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Support of concept that migrating progenitor cells from stem cell niches contribute to normal regeneration of the adult mammal intervertebral disc: a descriptive study in the New Zealand white rabbit. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2012; 37:722-32. [PMID: 21897341 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0b013e318231c2f7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Descriptive experimental study performed in rabbits of 2 age groups. OBJECTIVE To study and investigate presence of prechondrocytic cells and cell migration routes (MR) in the intervertebral disc (IVD) region to gain knowledge about the normal IVD regeneration pattern. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Disc degeneration is thought to play a major role in patients with chronic lumbar pain. Regeneration processes and cell migration within the IVD have been sparsely described. Therefore, it is of interest to increase knowledge of these processes in order to understand pathological conditions of the IVD. METHODS At the beginning of the experiment, 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) in vivo labeling was performed in 2 groups of rabbits, 3 and 9 months old (total 27 rabbits). BrdU is incorporated into DNA during mitosis, and then it is gradually diluted with each cell division until it finally disappears. Incorporation of BrdU was then visualized by immunohistochemistry (IHC) at different time points providing cell division pattern and presence of slow-cycling cells in the IVD region. IVD tissue was investigated by IHC for growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF5), SOX9 (chondrogenic lineage markers), SNAIL homolog 1 (SNAI1), SNAIL homolog 2 (SLUG) (migration markers), and β1-INTEGRIN (cellular adhesion marker). In addition, GDF5, SOX9, and BMPRIB expression were investigated on genetic level. RESULTS BrdU cells were observed in early time points in the IVD niche, adjacent to the epiphyseal plate, at later time points mainly in outer region of the annulus fibrosus for both age groups of rabbits, indicating a gradual migration of cells. The presence of SLUG, SNAI1, GDF5, SOX9, and β1-INTEGRIN was found in same regions. CONCLUSION The results suggest a cellular MR from the IVD stem cell niche toward the annulus fibrosus and the inner parts of the IVD. These findings may be of importance for understanding IVD regenerative mechanisms and for future development of biological treatment strategies.
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Dewit J, Witten PE, Huysseune A. The mechanism of cartilage subdivision in the reorganization of the zebrafish pectoral fin endoskeleton. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2011; 316:584-97. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.21433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2011] [Revised: 05/30/2011] [Accepted: 06/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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The presence of extracellular matrix degrading metalloproteinases during fetal development of the intervertebral disc. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2010; 19:1340-6. [PMID: 20383538 PMCID: PMC2989195 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-010-1378-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2009] [Revised: 02/01/2010] [Accepted: 03/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) regulate connective tissue architecture and cell migration through extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and are associated with both physiological and pathological processes. Although they are known to play a role in skeletal development, little is known about the role of MMPs in intervertebral disc (IVD) development. Sixteen fetal human lumbar spine segments, obtained at autopsy, were compared with five normal, non-fetal L4–L5 IVDs. Intensity and/or localization of immunohistochemical staining for MMP-1, -2, -3 and -14 were evaluated by three independent observers. MMP-2 production and activation was quantified by gelatin zymography. MMP-1 and -14 were abundantly present in the nucleus pulposus (NP) and notochordal (NC) cells of the fetal IVDs. In non-fetal IVDs, MMP-1 and -14 staining was significantly less intense (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). MMP-3 was found in almost the entire IVD with no significant difference from non-fetal IVDs. MMP-2 staining in the NC and NP cells of the fetal IVD was moderate, but weak in the non-fetal IVD. Gelatin zymography showed a negative correlation of age with MMP-2 activity (p < 0.001). MMP-14 immunostaining correlated positively with MMP-2 activity (p = 0.001). For the first time, the presence of MMP-1, -2, -3 and -14 in the fetal human IVD is shown and the high levels of MMP-1, -2 and -14 suggest a role in the development of the IVD. In particular, the gradual decrease in MMP-2 activation during gestation pinpoints this enzyme as key player in fetal development, possibly through activation by MMP-1 and -14.
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Chen J, Jing L, Gilchrist CL, Richardson WJ, Fitch RD, Setton LA. Expression of Laminin Isoforms, Receptors, and Binding Proteins Unique to Nucleus Pulposus Cells of Immature Intervertebral Disc. Connect Tissue Res 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/03008200802714925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
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Schubert T, Kaufmann S, Wenke AK, Grässel S, Bosserhoff AK. Role of deleted in colon carcinoma in osteoarthritis and in chondrocyte migration. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2009; 48:1435-41. [PMID: 19745029 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kep245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The concept of the chondrocyte as a stationary cell surrounded by an apparently impenetrable matrix has been challenged by in vitro observations in recent years. Chondrocyte migration may have a role in remodelling of the cartilage and pathological conditions. Candidate molecules are repellent factors for the regulation of chondrocyte migration, which are expressed in fetal and adult cartilage. We analysed the potential role of the receptor deleted in colon carcinoma (DCC) in chondrocytes, as this may exert attractive activities. METHODS Gene expression was determined by quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, and gene regulation by electro mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation. Functional assays on migration and differentiation were done after cell treatment and transfection. RESULTS DCC was shown to be specifically up-regulated in OA compared with normal chondrocytes in vitro and in vivo. Promoter analysis and transfection studies showed that the up-regulation of DCC in OA chondrocytes may be mediated by the transcription factors Sox9 and AP-2. Netrin-1, the ligand of DCC, was revealed to induce the migration of OA chondrocytes specifically. Expression of DCC in healthy chondrocytes by transient transfection significantly induced cell migration and chemotaxis to Netrin-1. DCC expression had no influence on cell differentiation; however, induction of MMP1 and -3 expression was observed. CONCLUSION Strong differential expression of DCC in OA compared with normal chondrocytes hints of a possible role of DCC in the pathophysiology of OA. The strong impact of the DCC receptor on cellular mobility of chondrocytes in vitro suggests a major relevance of migratory activities in physiological and pathological conditions of cartilage. However, definite proof of chondrocyte movements in vivo still has to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schubert
- University of Regensburg, Institute of Pathology, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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Kim KW, Chung HN, Ha KY, Lee JS, Kim YY. Senescence mechanisms of nucleus pulposus chondrocytes in human intervertebral discs. Spine J 2009; 9:658-66. [PMID: 19540815 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2009.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2008] [Revised: 03/14/2009] [Accepted: 04/14/2009] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT The population of senescent disc cells has been shown to increase in degenerated or herniated discs. However, the mechanism and signaling pathway involved in the senescence of nucleus pulposus (NP) chondrocytes are unknown. PURPOSE To demonstrate the mechanisms involved in the senescence of NP chondrocytes. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Senescence-related markers were assessed in the surgically obtained human NP specimens. PATIENT SAMPLE NP specimens remaining in the central region of the intervertebral disc were obtained from 25 patients (mean: 49 years, range: 20-75 years) undergoing discectomy. Based on the preoperative magnetic resonance images, there were 3 patients with Grade II degeneration, 17 patients with Grade III degeneration, and 5 patients with Grade IV degeneration. OUTCOME MEASURES We examined cell senescence markers (senescence-associated beta-galactosidase [SA-beta-gal], telomere length, telomerase activity, p53, p21, pRB, and p16) and the hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) content as a marker for an oxidative stress in the human NP specimens. METHODS SA-beta-gal expression, telomere length, telomerase activity, and H(2)O(2) content as well as their relationships with age and degeneration grades were analyzed. For the mechanism involved in the senescence of NP chondrocytes, expressions of p53, p21, pRB, and p16 in these cells were assessed with immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. RESULTS The percentages of SA-beta-gal-positive NP chondrocytes increased with age (r=.82, p<.001), whereas the telomere length and telomerase activity declined (r=-.41, p=.045; r=-.52, p=.008, respectively) However, there was no significant correlation between age and H(2)O(2) contents (p=.18). The NP specimens with Grade III or Grade IV degeneration showed significantly higher percentages of SA-beta-gal-positive NP chondrocytes than those with Grade II degeneration (p=.01 and p=.025, respectively). Immunohistochemistry showed that the senescent NP chondrocytes in all the specimens expressed p53, p21, and pRB, but a few NP chondrocytes in only two specimens expressed p16. Western blotting showed that the expressions of p53, p21, and pRB displayed a corresponding pattern, that is, a strong p53 expression led to strong p21 and pRB expressions and vice versa. CONCLUSIONS Our in vivo study demonstrated that senescent NP chondrocytes increased or accumulated in the NP with increasing age and advancing disc degeneration. The NP chondrocytes in the aging discs exhibited characteristic senescent features such as an increased SA-beta-gal expression, shortened telomeres, and decreased telomerase activity. We further demonstrated that the telomere-based p53-p21-pRB pathway, rather than the stress-based p16-pRB pathway, plays a more important role in the senescence of NP chondrocytes in an in vivo condition. Our results suggest that prevention or reversal of the senescence of NP chondrocytes can be a novel therapeutic target for human disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Won Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, 62 Yoido-dong, Youngdeungpo-ku, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Kim KW, Ha KY, Lee JS, Nam SW, Woo YK, Lim TH, An HS. Notochordal cells stimulate migration of cartilage end plate chondrocytes of the intervertebral disc in in vitro cell migration assays. Spine J 2009; 9:323-9. [PMID: 18619909 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2008.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2007] [Revised: 04/07/2008] [Accepted: 05/19/2008] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT It was recently demonstrated that the postnatal transition from a notochordal to a fibrocartilaginous nucleus pulposus (NP) is accomplished exogenously by chondrocytes migrating from hyaline cartilage end plates (CEs) into the ectopic notochordal NP region. Although our previous in vivo studies showed evidences for the migration of CE chondrocyte from hyaline CEs into the notochordal NP, it is unknown whether CE chondrocytes of the intervertebral disc (IVD) really have a motile property. In addition, the effect of notochordal cells on this property has not been elucidated. PURPOSE The purpose of this in vitro study was to demonstrate whether CE chondrocytes of the IVD are capable of migration, and whether there is any biological link between notochordal cells and CE chondrocytes that may regulate the CE chondrocyte migration. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING In vitro cell migration assays were performed using rat IVDs. METHODS Notochordal cells and chondrocytes were obtained from the NP and CE tissues, respectively, and were cultured separately. The different numbers of notochordal cells and the supernatant (conditioned medium) that contained soluble factors produced by notochordal cells were used to demonstrate their effects on the migration of CE chondrocytes. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. RESULTS Compared with BSA, LPA, notochordal cells (N=4x, 2x, 1x, and 0.5 x 10(5)), and its conditioned media (unconcentrated and fivefold concentrated) significantly increased migration of CE chondrocytes (p<.05 in all comparisons). Particularly, notochordal cells and its conditioned media increased migration in a number- and concentration-dependent manner, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that CE chondrocytes of the IVD are capable of migration and that soluble factors produced by notochordal cells stimulate the migration. These results provide a plausible explanation to the question of why CE chondrocytes of the IVD migrate into the ectopic NP region during the natural transition from the notochordal to fibrocartilaginous NP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Won Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, St Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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Seeding density modulates migration and morphology of rabbit chondrocytes cultured in collagen gels. Biotechnol Bioeng 2009; 102:294-302. [DOI: 10.1002/bit.22029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Abstract
Study Design Senescence-related markers were assessed in surgically obtained human nucleus pulposus (NP) specimens. Purpose To demonstrate the mechanism and signaling pathway involved in the senescence of NP chondrocytes. Overview of Literature The population of senescent disc cells has been shown to be increased in degenerated or herniated discs. However, the mechanism and signaling pathway involved in the senescence of NP chondrocytes are unknown. Methods We examined cell senescence markers [senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal), telomere length, telomerase activity, p53, p21, pRB and p16] and the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content in human NP specimens. Results The percentage of SA-β-gal-positive NP chondrocytes increased with age, while the telomere length and telomerase activity declined. However, there was no significant correlation between age and H2O2 content. The NP specimens with grade III or IV degeneration showed significantly higher percentages of SA-β-gal-positive NP chondrocytes than those with grade II degeneration. Immunohistochemistry showed that senescent NP chondrocytes in all specimens expressed p53, p21, and pRB, while a few NP chondrocytes in only two specimens expressed p16. Conclusions The present study demonstrates that, with increasing age and advancing disc degeneration, senescent NP chondrocytes increase or accumulate in the NP. Furthermore, the telomere-based p53, p21, pRB pathway, rather than the stress-based p16, pRB pathway, plays a more important role in the senescence of NP chondrocytes in in vivo conditions. Our results suggest that prevention or reversal of senescence of NP chondrocytes can be a novel mechanism by which to prevent human disc degeneration.
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A bovine intervertebral disc organ culture model was used to study the effect of needle puncture injury on short-term disc mechanics and biology. OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that significant changes in intervertebral disc structure, mechanics, and cellular response would be present within 1 week of needle puncture injury with a large-gauge needle but not with a small-gauge needle. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Defects in anulus fibrosus induced by needle puncture injury can compromise mechanical integrity of the disc and lead to degeneration in animal models. The immediate and short-term mechanical and biologic response to anulus injury through needle puncture in a large animal model is not known. METHODS Bovine caudal intervertebral discs were harvested, punctured posterolaterally using 25G and 14G needles, and placed in organ culture for 6 days. Discs underwent a daily dynamic compression loading protocol for 5 days from 0.2 to 1 MPa at 1 Hz for 1 hour. Disc structure and function were assessed with measurements of dynamic modulus, creep, height loss, water content, proteoglycan loss to the culture medium, cell viability, and histology. RESULTS Needle puncture injury caused a rapid decrease in dynamic modulus and increase in creep during 1-hour loading, although no changes were detected in water content, disc height, or proteoglycan lost to the media. Cell viability was maintained except for localized cell death at the needle insertion site. An increase in cell number and possible remodeling response was seen in the insertion site in the nucleus pulposus. CONCLUSION Relatively minor disruption in the disc from needle puncture injury had immediate and progressive mechanical and biologic consequences with important implications for the use of discography, and repair-regeneration techniques. Results also suggest diagnostic techniques sensitive to mechanical changes in the disc may be important for early detection of degenerative changes in response to anulus injury.
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The apoptotic effects of oxidative stress and antiapoptotic effects of caspase inhibitors on rat notochordal cells. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2007; 32:2443-8. [PMID: 18090083 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0b013e318157395a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Western blotting and flow cytometric analyses were performed using rat notochordal cells. OBJECTIVE To demonstrate the apoptotic effect of oxidative stress and the antiapoptotic effects of caspase inhibitors on rat notochordal cells. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Although oxidative stress causes apoptosis in many cell types, its effect on the apoptosis of notochordal cell and antiapoptotic effects of caspase inhibitors on the oxidative stress-induced apoptosis are unknown. METHODS Cultured rat notochordal cells were exposed to oxidative stress [500 micromol/L of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)]. To determine the oxidative stress-induced apoptotic pathways, activations of caspases (-3, -8, and -9) as well as cleavages of Bid and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) were evaluated with Western blotting 6 hours after oxidative stress. To elucidate the antiapoptotic effects of caspase inhibitors on the oxidative stress induced-apoptosis, apoptotic rates of notochordal cells with or without treatment of specific caspase inhibitors (z-IETD-fmk for caspase-8, z-LEHD-fmk for caspase-9, and z-DEVD-fmk for caspase-3) were quantified by flow cytometry. RESULTS Oxidative stress significantly increased apoptosis of rat notochordal cells (2.1% vs. 4.75%, P = 0.008) and led to activations of initiators of intrinsic (caspases-9) and extrinsic (caspase-8) pathways as well as their common executioner (caspase-3). It also caused cleavages of Bid and PARP. Flow cytometric analysis showed that inhibition of only one of the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways by caspase-9 inhibitor (4.75% vs. 3.56%, P = 0.31) and caspase-8 inhibitor (4.75% vs. 5.24%, P = 0.84) did not significantly suppress the oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. However, inhibition of both pathways by caspase-3 inhibitor significantly reduced the oxidative stress-induced apoptosis (4.75% vs. 2.64%, P = 0.008) to the control level (2.1% vs. 2.64%, P = 0.15). CONCLUSION Oxidative stress caused apoptosis of rat notochordal cells via both intrinsic and extrinsic (Type I and Type II) pathways. Because caspase inhibitors are being used in clinical trials, inhibition of both pathways using caspase inhibitors might be of future therapeutic importance in oxidative stress-induced apoptosis of notochordal cells. Our results suggest that inhibition of inappropriate or premature oxidative stress-induced apoptosis of notochordal cells may delay the starting point of disc degeneration.
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Abstract
GOALS To review the literature on chondrocyte movements and to develop plausible hypothesis for further work. DESIGN Chondrocyte movements are herein defined as translocations of the cell body. A brief overview of cell migration in other cell types is presented to set the stage for a discussion of chondrocyte moves; this includes a discussion of the challenges that cells find when moving within tissues. Reports of isolated chondrocyte migration in vitro (isolated cell systems) and ex vivo (cartilage organ cultures) are then summarized, followed by a discussion of recent studies that infer chondrocyte movements in vivo. RESULTS Investigators from different laboratories have observed chondrocyte motility in vitro. I became interested in the question of whether articular chondrocytes retained their phenotype during their migratory excursions. We devised a simple method to separate migratory and stationary chondrocytes and then showed that migratory chondrocytes synthesized collagen II but not I--consistent with a differentiated phenotype. Our time-lapse video microscopy studies showed that the cells displayed appropriate movement kinetics, albeit with low speed and directionality. Similarly, others have presented data consistent with slow movement of chondrocytes out of cartilage explants. It is important to decipher whether these in vitro movements reflect physiological states and if so, which events are simulated. Examples of in vivo studies that have inferred chondrocyte movements include those describing rotational or gliding movements of chondrocytes in the proliferative zone of the growth plate and its importance in the growth process; and the notion that chondrocytes move from the cartilage endplates to the nucleus pulposus (NP) in the spine of rabbits and rats during development. Such studies are consistent with the hypothesis that chondrocytes exhibit highly controlled and specialized movements during tissue growth and remodeling in vivo. On the other hand, the cartilage explant studies elicit interest in the possibility that matrix injuries resulting in disruption of the collagen network of adult cartilages provide a permissive environment for chondrocyte motility. CONCLUSIONS The case for in vivo chondrocyte motility remains to be proven. However, the in vitro and in vivo data on chondrocyte movements present an argument for further thought and studies in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- T I Morales
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Alini M, Eisenstein SM, Ito K, Little C, Kettler AA, Masuda K, Melrose J, Ralphs J, Stokes I, Wilke HJ. Are animal models useful for studying human disc disorders/degeneration? EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2007; 17:2-19. [PMID: 17632738 PMCID: PMC2365516 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-007-0414-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 496] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2006] [Revised: 04/24/2007] [Accepted: 05/28/2007] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is an often investigated pathophysiological condition because of its implication in causing low back pain. As human material for such studies is difficult to obtain because of ethical and government regulatory restriction, animal tissue, organs and in vivo models have often been used for this purpose. However, there are many differences in cell population, tissue composition, disc and spine anatomy, development, physiology and mechanical properties, between animal species and human. Both naturally occurring and induced degenerative changes may differ significantly from those seen in humans. This paper reviews the many animal models developed for the study of IVD degeneration aetiopathogenesis and treatments thereof. In particular, the limitations and relevance of these models to the human condition are examined, and some general consensus guidelines are presented. Although animal models are invaluable to increase our understanding of disc biology, because of the differences between species, care must be taken when used to study human disc degeneration and much more effort is needed to facilitate research on human disc material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Alini
- AO Research Institute, Clavadelerstrasse, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | | | - Keita Ito
- AO Research Institute, Clavadelerstrasse, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Christopher Little
- Raymond Purves Lab, Institute of Bone and Joint Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney at the Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, NSW Australia
| | - A. Annette Kettler
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Koichi Masuda
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rush Medical College at Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL USA
| | - James Melrose
- Raymond Purves Lab, Institute of Bone and Joint Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney at the Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, NSW Australia
| | - Jim Ralphs
- School of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Ian Stokes
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Vermont, Burlington, VA USA
| | - Hans Joachim Wilke
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Lotz JC, Ulrich JA. Innervation, inflammation, and hypermobility may characterize pathologic disc degeneration: review of animal model data. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2006; 88 Suppl 2:76-82. [PMID: 16595449 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.e.01448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Animal models provide important clues to the pathomechanisms of human intervertebral disc degeneration. Previous reviews on this topic have highlighted the fact that loss of nuclear volume (and, consequently, pressure) is a common trigger for tissue-remodeling and anatomic change consistent with degeneration in humans. Unfortunately, a large gap still exists in the medical knowledge base that serves to distinguish symptomatic from asymptomatic degeneration. Because disc degeneration per se is not a basis for clinical intervention, identification of specific features underlying discogenic pain is of the utmost importance to advance the current level of care and identify novel therapeutic targets. This article presents animal-model evidence that pathologic, or painful, degeneration is characterized by ineffective injury-healing of peripheral tissue. Because the disc is only vascularized at the vertebral end plate and the outer part of the anulus, these are the likely sites for focal damage, inflammation, neoinnervation, and nociceptor sensitization. Consequently, while nuclear insufficiency is likely the root of degenerative change, the end plate and peripheral part of the anulus are more likely the source of patient discomfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey C Lotz
- Orthopaedic Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California at San Francisco, Box 0514, 533 Parnassus Avenue, University Hall U-454, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA.
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