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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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Chen Y, Guo B, Ma G, Cao H. Sensory nerve regulation of bone homeostasis: Emerging therapeutic opportunities for bone-related diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 99:102372. [PMID: 38880342 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102372] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the intricate interplay between sensory nerves and bone tissue cells is of paramount significance in the field of bone biology and clinical medicine. The regulatory role of sensory nerves in bone homeostasis offers a novel perspective for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions for a spectrum of bone-related diseases, including osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and intervertebral disc degeneration. By elucidating the mechanisms through which sensory nerves and their neuropeptides influence the differentiation and function of bone tissue cells, this review aims to shed light on emerging therapeutic targets that harness the neuro-skeletal axis for the treatment and management of debilitating bone disorders. Moreover, a comprehensive understanding of sensory nerve-mediated bone regulation may pave the way for the development of innovative strategies to promote bone health and mitigate the burden of skeletal pathologies in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of Guangdong, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Botao Guo
- The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao, Hebei 066000, China
| | - Guixing Ma
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of Guangdong, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Huiling Cao
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of Guangdong, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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3
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Swahn H, Mertens J, Olmer M, Myers K, Mondala TS, Natarajan P, Head SR, Alvarez‐Garcia O, Lotz MK. Shared and Compartment-Specific Processes in Nucleus Pulposus and Annulus Fibrosus During Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2309032. [PMID: 38403470 PMCID: PMC11077672 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Elucidating how cell populations promote onset and progression of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) has the potential to enable more precise therapeutic targeting of cells and mechanisms. Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) is performed on surgically separated annulus fibrosus (AF) (19,978; 26,983 cells) and nucleus pulposus (NP) (20,884; 24,489 cells) from healthy and diseased human intervertebral discs (IVD). In both tissue types, depletion of cell subsets involved in maintenance of healthy IVD is observed, specifically the immature cell subsets - fibroblast progenitors and stem cells - indicative of an impairment of normal tissue self-renewal. Tissue-specific changes are also identified. In NP, several fibrotic populations are increased in degenerated IVD, indicating tissue-remodeling. In degenerated AF, a novel disease-associated subset is identified, which expresses disease-promoting genes. It is associated with pathogenic biological processes and the main gene regulatory networks include thrombospondin signaling and FOXO1 transcription factor. In NP and AF cells thrombospondin protein promoted expression of genes associated with TGFβ/fibrosis signaling, angiogenesis, and nervous system development. The data reveal new insights of both shared and tissue-specific changes in specific cell populations in AF and NP during IVD degeneration. These identified mechanisms and molecules are novel and more precise targets for IDD prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Swahn
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Jasmin Mertens
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Merissa Olmer
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Kevin Myers
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Tony S. Mondala
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics CoreScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Padmaja Natarajan
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics CoreScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Steven R. Head
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics CoreScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Oscar Alvarez‐Garcia
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Martin K. Lotz
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
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Kuchynsky K, Stevens P, Hite A, Xie W, Diop K, Tang S, Pietrzak M, Khan S, Walter B, Purmessur D. Transcriptional profiling of human cartilage endplate cells identifies novel genes and cell clusters underlying degenerated and non-degenerated phenotypes. Arthritis Res Ther 2024; 26:12. [PMID: 38173036 PMCID: PMC10763221 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-023-03220-6] [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: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is frequently attributed to intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Though the contributions of the adjacent cartilage endplates (CEP) to IVD degeneration are well documented, the phenotype and functions of the resident CEP cells are critically understudied. To better characterize CEP cell phenotype and possible mechanisms of CEP degeneration, bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing of non-degenerated and degenerated CEP cells were performed. METHODS Human lumbar CEP cells from degenerated (Thompson grade ≥ 4) and non-degenerated (Thompson grade ≤ 2) discs were expanded for bulk (N=4 non-degenerated, N=4 degenerated) and single-cell (N=1 non-degenerated, N=1 degenerated) RNA sequencing. Genes identified from bulk RNA sequencing were categorized by function and their expression in non-degenerated and degenerated CEP cells were compared. A PubMed literature review was also performed to determine which genes were previously identified and studied in the CEP, IVD, and other cartilaginous tissues. For single-cell RNA sequencing, different cell clusters were resolved using unsupervised clustering and functional annotation. Differential gene expression analysis and Gene Ontology, respectively, were used to compare gene expression and functional enrichment between cell clusters, as well as between non-degenerated and degenerated CEP samples. RESULTS Bulk RNA sequencing revealed 38 genes were significantly upregulated and 15 genes were significantly downregulated in degenerated CEP cells relative to non-degenerated cells (|fold change| ≥ 1.5). Of these, only 2 genes were previously studied in CEP cells, and 31 were previously studied in the IVD and other cartilaginous tissues. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed 11 unique cell clusters, including multiple chondrocyte and progenitor subpopulations with distinct gene expression and functional profiles. Analysis of genes in the bulk RNA sequencing dataset showed that progenitor cell clusters from both samples were enriched in "non-degenerated" genes but not "degenerated" genes. For both bulk- and single-cell analyses, gene expression and pathway enrichment analyses highlighted several pathways that may regulate CEP degeneration, including transcriptional regulation, translational regulation, intracellular transport, and mitochondrial dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS This thorough analysis using RNA sequencing methods highlighted numerous differences between non-degenerated and degenerated CEP cells, the phenotypic heterogeneity of CEP cells, and several pathways of interest that may be relevant in CEP degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Kuchynsky
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, 3016 Fontana Laboratories, 140 W. 19th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Patrick Stevens
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Amy Hite
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - William Xie
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Khady Diop
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, 3016 Fontana Laboratories, 140 W. 19th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Shirley Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, 3016 Fontana Laboratories, 140 W. 19th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Maciej Pietrzak
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Safdar Khan
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Benjamin Walter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, 3016 Fontana Laboratories, 140 W. 19th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, 3016 Fontana Laboratories, 140 W. 19th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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5
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Li Y, Zhou S, Hu X, Lu S. The pathological mechanisms of circRNAs in mediating intervertebral disc degeneration. Noncoding RNA Res 2023; 8:633-640. [PMID: 37780894 PMCID: PMC10539873 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.09.004] [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] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Lower back pain (LBP) is a worldwide health problem associated with significant economic and social burden. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a leading cause of LBP. Several studies show that the death of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), abnormal metabolism of the extracellular matrix (ECM), and inflammatory response are the key mechanisms behind the pathogenesis of IVDD. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression and play a significant role in regulating NPCs death, ECM homeostasis, and inflammatory response by acting as microRNAs (miRNAs) sponges in IVDD. However, the regulatory role of circRNAs in mediating IVDD remains unknown. This review comprehensively describes the normal anatomic structure and function of IVD, the pathogenesis of IVDD, the characteristics, synthesis, mechanisms, and function of circRNAs. Moreover, we highlighted the 23 circRNAs that mediate ECM metabolism, 16 circRNAs that mediate NPCs apoptosis, circ_0004354 and circ_0040039 that mediate NPCs pyroptosis, and 5 circRNAs that mediate inflammatory response in IVDD. In addition, this review presents suggestions for future studies, such as the need for further investigation on ferroptosis-related circRNAs in IVDD. This review could provide novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjin Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 45 Changchun Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Suzhe Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Anhui No 2 Provincial People's Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Xinli Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 45 Changchun Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Shibao Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 45 Changchun Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
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Jha R, Bernstock JD, Chalif JI, Hoffman SE, Gupta S, Guo H, Lu Y. Updates on Pathophysiology of Discogenic Back Pain. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6907. [PMID: 37959372 PMCID: PMC10647359 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Discogenic back pain, a subset of chronic back pain, is caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, and imparts a notable socioeconomic health burden on the population. However, degeneration by itself does not necessarily imply discogenic pain. In this review, we highlight the existing literature on the pathophysiology of discogenic back pain, focusing on the biomechanical and biochemical steps that lead to pain in the setting of IVD degeneration. Though the pathophysiology is incompletely characterized, the current evidence favors a framework where degeneration leads to IVD inflammation, and subsequent immune milieu recruitment. Chronic inflammation serves as a basis of penetrating neovascularization and neoinnervation into the IVD. Hence, nociceptive sensitization emerges, which manifests as discogenic back pain. Recent studies also highlight the complimentary roles of low virulence infections and central nervous system (CNS) metabolic state alteration. Targeted therapies that seek to disrupt inflammation, angiogenesis, and neurogenic pathways are being investigated. Regenerative therapy in the form of gene therapy and cell-based therapy are also being explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Jha
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joshua D. Bernstock
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joshua I. Chalif
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Samantha E. Hoffman
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Saksham Gupta
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Hong Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Peng Y, Chen X, Rao Z, Wu W, Zuo H, Chen K, Li K, Lin H, Liu S, Xiao Y, Wang B, Quan D, Qing X, Bai Y, Shao Z. Multifunctional annulus fibrosus matrix prevents disc-related pain via inhibiting neuroinflammation and sensitization. Acta Biomater 2023; 170:288-302. [PMID: 37598791 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Chronic low back pain mainly attributed to intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Endogenous damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in the injured IVD, particularly mitochondria-derived nucleic acid molecules (CpG DNA), play a primary role in the inflammatory responses in macrophages. M1-type macrophages form a chronic inflammatory microenvironment by releasing pro-inflammatory factors and nerve growth factor (NGF) that induce nerve growth into the inner annulus fibrosus, resulting in persistent hyperalgesia. We fabricated an amphiphilic polycarbonate that naturally forms cationic nanoparticles (cNP) in aqueous solutions, with the hydrophobic core loaded with TrkA-IN-1, an antagonist against the NGF receptor (TrkA). The drug delivery nanoparticles were denoted as TI-cNP. TrkA-IN-1 and TI-cNP were added to the decellularized annulus fibrosus matrix (DAF) hydrogel to form hybrid hydrogels, denoted as TI-DAF and TI-cNP-DAF, respectively. As a result, TrkA-IN-1 showed a delayed release profile both in TI-DAF and TI-cNP-DAF. Each mole of cNP could bind approximately 3 mol of CpG DNA to inhibit inflammation. cNP-DAF and TI-cNP-DAF significantly inhibited the M1 phenotype induced by CpG DNA. TI-DAF and TI-cNP-DAF reduced neurite branching and axon length, and inhibited the expression of neurogenic mediators (CGRP and substance P) in the presence of NGF. Besides, TI-cNP-DAF relieved mechanical hyperalgesia, reduced CGRP and substance P expression in the dorsal root ganglion, and downregulated GFAP and c-FOS signaling in the spinal cord in the rat disc herniation model. Summarily, TI-cNP-DAF, a novel composite IVD hydrogel, efficiently mediated the inflammatory environment, inhibited nerve ingrowth and sensitization, and could be clinically applied for treating discogenic pain. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Discogenic lower back pain, related to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), imposes a tremendous health and economic burden globally. M1-type macrophages release pro-inflammatory factors and nerve growth factor (NGF) that induce nerve growth into the inner annulus fibrosus, resulting in persistent hyperalgesia and discogenic pain. Reconstructing matrix integrity and modulating the inflammatory microenvironment are promising strategies for preventing the ingrowth and activation of neurites. The TI-cNP-DAF hydrogel recovers tissue integrity, alleviates inflammation, and delivers the TrkA antagonist to inhibit the activity of NGF, thus restraining hyperinnervation and nociceptive input. Due to its simple production process, injectability, and acellular strategy, the hydrogel is operable and holds great potential for treating discogenic lower back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhong Peng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Xuanzuo Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Zilong Rao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510127, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Huiying Zuo
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510127, China
| | - Kaibin Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510127, China
| | - Kanglu Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Hui Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Sheng Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yan Xiao
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - BaiChuan Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Daping Quan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510127, China
| | - Xiangcheng Qing
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - Ying Bai
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510127, China.
| | - Zengwu Shao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
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8
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Hoseinyazdi M, Asadollahi S, Luna R, Rafiee F, Gong G, Yousem DM. Longitudinal assessment of annular fissures of the cervical spine: overlooked and static. NORTH AMERICAN SPINE SOCIETY JOURNAL 2023; 15:100238. [PMID: 37457394 PMCID: PMC10345478 DOI: 10.1016/j.xnsj.2023.100238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Cervical annular fissures (AFs) have not been studied specifically as to their prevalence, imaging features, and persistence over time. We sought to determine the prevalence and natural history of cervical AFs. We hypothesized that these are static lesions that are not prevalent in the population. Methods This was a cross-sectional retrospective study of cervical MRI examinations performed between 2011-2021. We retrospectively reviewed the studies of 115 consecutive patients (63 female, 52 male) who had 2 or more MRI studies of the cervical spine to identify (1) imaging features of cervical AFs on various pulse sequences, (2) the concurrence of disc bulges/herniations, (3) changes in those imaging findings over time (mean follow-up 39.3 months) and (4) rate at which cervical AFs were mentioned in radiology reports. 620 initial and follow-up studies were reviewed. Results 50/115 (43.5%) patients had cervical AFs; 21 patients had a single AF and 29 patients had multi-level AFs (total 109 AFs). The most common levels affected were C4-C5 (28%, n = 31) and C5-C6 (27%, n = 30). All cervical AFs were hyperintense on T2WI and, over time, 95% (n = 104/109) of the AFs remained hyperintense; 22% (n = 25) showed less hyperintensity, 10% (n = 11) more hyperintensity, and 60% (n = 66) the same hyperintensity. 5 AFs (4%) resolved completely. Only 2 (8%) of 25 cervical AFs enhanced with gadolinium. The rate of concomitant disc bulges and herniations was 71% (n = 78) and 22% (n = 24) respectively. The presence of cervical AFs did not increase the risk of progression to bulges or herniations. None of the cervical AFs were mentioned in the radiology reports. Conclusions Cervical AFs occurred in 43.5% of patients but were rarely reported. They usually remained bright on T2W but their brightness could vary over time. Cervical AFs were often associated with disc bulges/herniations and enhanced less frequently (8%) than lumbar disk AFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meisam Hoseinyazdi
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Phipps B-100, Baltimore, MD 21287
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street Boston, Boston MA
| | - Shadi Asadollahi
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Phipps B-100, Baltimore, MD 21287
| | - Rodrigo Luna
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Phipps B-100, Baltimore, MD 21287
| | - Faranak Rafiee
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street Boston, Boston MA
| | - Gary Gong
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Phipps B-100, Baltimore, MD 21287
| | - David M. Yousem
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Phipps B-100, Baltimore, MD 21287
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9
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Soufi KH, Castillo JA, Rogdriguez FY, DeMesa CJ, Ebinu JO. Potential Role for Stem Cell Regenerative Therapy as a Treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease and Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108893. [PMID: 37240236 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide. Despite the prevalence and morbidity of lower back pain, we still lack a gold-standard treatment that restores the physiological function of degenerated intervertebral discs. Recently, stem cells have emerged as a promising strategy for regenerative therapy for degenerative disc disease. In this study, we review the etiology, pathogenesis, and developing treatment strategies for disc degeneration in low back pain with a focus on regenerative stem cell therapies. A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE/Embase/Clinical Trials.gov databases was conducted for all human subject abstracts or studies. There was a total of 10 abstracts and 11 clinical studies (1 RCT) that met the inclusion criteria. The molecular mechanism, approach, and progress of the different stem cell strategies in all studies are discussed, including allogenic bone marrow, allogenic discogenic cells, autologous bone marrow, adipose mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), human umbilical cord MSC, adult juvenile chondrocytes, autologous disc derived chondrocytes, and withdrawn studies. Clinical success with animal model studies is promising; however, the clinical outcomes of stem cell regenerative therapy remain poorly understood. In this systematic review, we found no evidence to support its use in humans. Further studies on efficacy, safety, and optimal patient selection will establish whether this becomes a viable, non-invasive therapeutic option for back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija H Soufi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Jose A Castillo
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Freddie Y Rogdriguez
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Charles J DeMesa
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Julius O Ebinu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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10
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Lorio MP, Beall DP, Calodney AK, Lewandrowski KU, Block JE, Mekhail N. Defining the Patient with Lumbar Discogenic Pain: Real-World Implications for Diagnosis and Effective Clinical Management. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13050821. [PMID: 37240991 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13050821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an enormous body of literature that has identified the intervertebral disc as a potent pain generator. However, with regard to lumbar degenerative disc disease, the specific diagnostic criteria lack clarity and fail to capture the primary components which include axial midline low back pain with or without non-radicular/non-sciatic referred leg pain in a sclerotomal distribution. In fact, there is no specific ICD-10-CM diagnostic code to classify and define discogenic pain as a unique source of pain distinct from other recognized sources of chronic low back pain including facetogenic, neurocompressive including herniation and/or stenosis, sacroiliac, vertebrogenic, and psychogenic. All of these other sources have well-defined ICD-10-CM codes. Corresponding codes for discogenic pain remain absent from the diagnostic coding vernacular. The International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery (ISASS) has proposed a modernization of ICD-10-CM codes to specifically define pain associated with lumbar and lumbosacral degenerative disc disease. The proposed codes would also allow the pain to be characterized by location: lumbar region only, leg only, or both. Successful implementation of these codes would benefit both physicians and payers in distinguishing, tracking, and improving algorithms and treatments for discogenic pain associated with intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan P Lorio
- Advanced Orthopedics, 499 E. Central Pkwy., Ste. 130, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701, USA
| | - Douglas P Beall
- Clinical Radiology of Oklahoma, 1800 S. Renaissance Blvd., Ste. 110, Edmond, OK 73013, USA
| | | | - Kai-Uwe Lewandrowski
- Center for Advanced Spine Care of Southern Arizona, 4787 E. Camp Lowell Drive, Tucson, AZ 85712, USA
| | - Jon E Block
- Independent Consultant, 2210 Jackson Street, Ste. 401, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Nagy Mekhail
- Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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11
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Kuhn A, Riegger J, Teixeira GQ, Huber-Lang M, Lambris JD, Neidlinger-Wilke C, Brenner RE. Terminal Complement Activation Is Induced by Factors Released from Endplate Tissue of Disc Degeneration Patients and Stimulates Expression of Catabolic Enzymes in Annulus Fibrosus Cells. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060887. [PMID: 36980228 PMCID: PMC10047197 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Terminal complement complex (TCC) deposition was identified in human degenerated discs. To clarify the role of terminal complement activation in disc degeneration (DD), we investigated respective activating mechanisms and cellular effects in annulus fibrosus (AF) cells. Isolated cells from human AF, nucleus pulposus (NP), and endplate (EP) were stimulated with human serum alone or with zymosan and treated with either the C3 inhibitor Cp40 or the C5 antibody eculizumab. Complement activation was determined via anaphylatoxin generation and TCC deposition detection. Thereby, induced catabolic effects were evaluated in cultured AF cells. Moreover, C5 cleavage under degenerative conditions in the presence of AF cells was assessed. Zymosan-induced anaphylatoxin generation and TCC deposition was significantly suppressed by both complement inhibitors. Zymosan induced gene expression of ADAMTS4, MMP1, and COX2. Whereas the C3 blockade attenuated the expression of ADAMTS4, the C5 blockade reduced the expression of ADAMTS4, MMP1, and COX2. Direct C5 cleavage was significantly enhanced by EP conditioned medium from DD patients and CTSD. These results indicate that terminal complement activation might be functionally involved in the progression of DD. Moreover, we found evidence that soluble factors secreted by degenerated EP tissue can mediate direct C5 cleavage, thereby contributing to complement activation in degenerated discs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelie Kuhn
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Jana Riegger
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Graciosa Q. Teixeira
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus Huber-Lang
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Trauma Immunology, University Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - John D. Lambris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Cornelia Neidlinger-Wilke
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Rolf E. Brenner
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)731-500-63280
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12
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Huang C, Liu Z, Wei Z, Fang Z, Xi Z, Cai P, Li J. Will the adjustment of insertional pedicle screw positions affect the risk of adjacent segment diseases biomechanically? An in-silico study. Front Surg 2023; 9:1004642. [PMID: 36713678 PMCID: PMC9877423 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2022.1004642] [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] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The fixation-induced biomechanical deterioration will increase the risk of adjacent segment diseases (ASD) after lumbar interbody fusion with Bilateral pedicle screw (BPS) fixation. The accurate adjustment of insertional pedicle screw positions is possible, and published studies have reported its mechanical effects. However, no studies clarified that adjusting insertional screw positions would affect the postoperative biomechanical environment and the risk of ASD. The objective of this study was to identify this issue and provide theoretical references for the optimization of insertional pedicle screw position selections. Methods The oblique lumbar interbody fusion fixed by BPS with different insertional positions has been simulated in the L4-L5 segment of our previously constructed and validated lumbosacral model. Biomechanical indicators related to ASD have been computed and recorded under flexion, extension, bending, and axial rotation loading conditions. Results The change of screw insertional positions has more apparent biomechanical effects on the cranial than the caudal segment. Positive collections can be observed between the reduction of the fixation length and the alleviation of motility compensation and stress concentration on facet cartilages. By contrast, no pronounced tendency of stress distribution on the intervertebral discs can be observed with the change of screw positions. Conclusions Reducing the fixation stiffness by adjusting the insertional screw positions could alleviate the biomechanical deterioration and be an effective method to reduce the risk of ASD caused by BPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyi Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zongchao Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhangchao Wei
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhongxin Fang
- Fluid and Power Machinery Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Xihua University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhipeng Xi
- Department of Spine Surgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital on Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Cai
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China,Correspondence: Jingchi Li Ping Cai
| | - Jingchi Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China,Correspondence: Jingchi Li Ping Cai
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13
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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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14
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Role of Pyroptosis in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration and Its Therapeutic Implications. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121804. [PMID: 36551232 PMCID: PMC9775394 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), a progressive and multifactorial pathological process, is predominantly associated with low back pain and permanent disability. Pyroptosis is a type of lytic programmed cell death triggered by the activation of inflammasomes and caspases. Unlike apoptosis, pyroptosis is characterized by the rupture of the plasma membrane and the release of inflammatory mediators, accelerating the destruction of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Recent studies have shown that pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis in nucleus pulposus (NP) cells is activated in the progression of IDD. Furthermore, targeting pyroptosis in IDD demonstrates the excellent capacity of ECM remodeling and its anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting that pyroptosis is involved in the IDD process. In this review, we briefly summarize the molecular mechanism of pyroptosis and the pathogenesis of IDD. We also focus on the role of pyroptosis in the pathological progress of IDD and its targeted therapeutic application.
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15
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Diwan AD, Melrose J. Intervertebral disc degeneration and how it leads to low back pain. JOR Spine 2022; 6:e1231. [PMID: 36994466 PMCID: PMC10041390 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review was to evaluate data generated by animal models of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration published in the last decade and show how this has made invaluable contributions to the identification of molecular events occurring in and contributing to pain generation. IVD degeneration and associated spinal pain is a complex multifactorial process, its complexity poses difficulties in the selection of the most appropriate therapeutic target to focus on of many potential candidates in the formulation of strategies to alleviate pain perception and to effect disc repair and regeneration and the prevention of associated neuropathic and nociceptive pain. Nerve ingrowth and increased numbers of nociceptors and mechanoreceptors in the degenerate IVD are mechanically stimulated in the biomechanically incompetent abnormally loaded degenerate IVD leading to increased generation of low back pain. Maintenance of a healthy IVD is, thus, an important preventative measure that warrants further investigation to preclude the generation of low back pain. Recent studies with growth and differentiation factor 6 in IVD puncture and multi-level IVD degeneration models and a rat xenograft radiculopathy pain model have shown it has considerable potential in the prevention of further deterioration in degenerate IVDs, has regenerative properties that promote recovery of normal IVD architectural functional organization and inhibits the generation of inflammatory mediators that lead to disc degeneration and the generation of low back pain. Human clinical trials are warranted and eagerly anticipated with this compound to assess its efficacy in the treatment of IVD degeneration and the prevention of the generation of low back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish D. Diwan
- Spine Service, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. George & Sutherland Clinical School University of New South Wales Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - James Melrose
- Raymond Purves Bone and Joint Research Laboratory Kolling Institute, Sydney University Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Sydney Area Health District, Royal North Shore Hospital Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering The University of New South Wales Sydney New South Wales Australia
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16
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Zhu D, Miao Z, Dong M, Lin J, Wang Y, Tian N, Luo P, Lin Y, Wu Y, Chen M. Development of a Novel Rat Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Model by Surgical Multifidus Resection-Induced Instability. World Neurosurg 2022; 165:e357-e364. [PMID: 35724886 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.06.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate whether surgical resection of multifidus in rats could generate a reliable model of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). METHODS Instability of the lumbar spine in Sprague-Dawley rats was induced by multifidus resection. Longissimus changes were examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. Specific protein and mRNA changes in the nucleus pulposus (NP) were quantified by Western blot and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Bone alterations were assessed using X-ray imaging, and disc changes were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Fat infiltration and increased tumor necrosis factor-α expression in the longissimus were detected following surgery. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot results demonstrated that the inflammation and catabolism in the NP were increased after the surgical intervention. Moreover, X-ray imaging showed that the disc height had decreased and bone spurs had formed at the vertebral rims. Histological analyses further revealed degeneration of the annulus fibrosus, endplate, and NP. Furthermore, in contrast to the sham group, the collagen II expression was reduced, while matrix metalloproteinase-13 was increased in the surgery group. CONCLUSIONS Surgical resection of the multifidus in rats resulted in a reproducible IVDD model. Because the present procedure does not impart direct injury to the intervertebral disc, it can better imitate the pathological states in humans. Therefore, our rat multifidus resection model might help us further understand the intrinsic pathophysiology of IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingchao Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhimin Miao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mingwei Dong
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jiahao Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yihan Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Naifeng Tian
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Peng Luo
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yan Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yaosen Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Mochuan Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's, Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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17
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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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18
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Mohd Isa IL, Mokhtar SA, Abbah SA, Fauzi MB, Devitt A, Pandit A. Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Strategies toward Precision Medicine. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2102530. [PMID: 35373924 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202102530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration is a common cause of discogenic low back pain resulting in significant disability. Current conservative or surgical intervention treatments do not reverse the underlying disc degeneration or regenerate the disc. Biomaterial-based tissue engineering strategies exhibit the potential to regenerate the disc due to their capacity to modulate local tissue responses, maintain the disc phenotype, attain biochemical homeostasis, promote anatomical tissue repair, and provide functional mechanical support. Despite preliminary positive results in preclinical models, these approaches have limited success in clinical trials as they fail to address discogenic pain. This review gives insights into the understanding of intervertebral disc pathology, the emerging concept of precision medicine, and the rationale of personalized biomaterial-based tissue engineering tailored to the severity of the disease targeting early, mild, or severe degeneration, thereby enhancing the efficacy of the treatment for disc regeneration and ultimately to alleviate discogenic pain. Further research is required to assess the relationship between disc degeneration and lower back pain for developing future clinically relevant therapeutic interventions targeted towards the subgroup of degenerative disc disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isma Liza Mohd Isa
- Department of Anatomy Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur 56000 Malaysia
- CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices National University of Ireland Galway H91W2TY Ireland
| | - Sabarul Afian Mokhtar
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur 56000 Malaysia
| | - Sunny A. Abbah
- CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices National University of Ireland Galway H91W2TY Ireland
| | - Mh Busra Fauzi
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur 56000 Malaysia
| | - Aiden Devitt
- CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices National University of Ireland Galway H91W2TY Ireland
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery University Hospital Galway Galway H91YR71 Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices National University of Ireland Galway H91W2TY Ireland
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19
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Li W, Ding Z, Zhang H, Shi Q, Wang D, Zhang S, Xu S, Gao B, Yan M. The Roles of Blood Lipid-Metabolism Genes in Immune Infiltration Could Promote the Development of IDD. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:844395. [PMID: 35223859 PMCID: PMC8864150 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.844395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Intervertebral disc degeneration is a progressive and chronic disease, usually manifesting as low back pain. This study aimed to screen effective biomarkers for medical practice as well as figuring out immune infiltration situations between circulation and intervertebral discs. Methods: Gene expression profiles of GSE124272 was included for differentially analysis, WGCNA and immune infiltration analysis from GEO database, and other GSE series were used as validation datasets. A series of validation methods were conducted to verify the robustness of hub genes, such as principal component analysis, machine learning models, and expression verification. Lastly, nomogram was established for medical practice. Results: 10 genes were commonly screened via combination of DEGs, WGCNA analysis and lipid metabolism related genes. Furthermore, 3 hub gens CYP27A1, FAR2, CYP1B1 were chosen for subsequent analysis based on validation of different methods. GSEA analysis discovered that neutrophil extracellular traps formation and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway was activated during IDD. Immune infiltration analysis demonstrated that the imbalance of neutrophils and γδT cells were significantly correlated with IDD progression. Nomogram was established based on CYP27A1, FAR2, CYP1B1 and age, the calibration plot confirmed the stability of our model. Conclusion: CYP27A1, FAR2, CYP1B1 were considered as hub lipid metabolism related genes (LMRGs) in the development of IDD, which were regarded as candidate diagnostic biomarkers especially in circulation. The effects are worth expected in the early diagnosis of IDD through detecting these genes in blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihang Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ziyi Ding
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Quan Shi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Yanan University, Yanan, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Yanan University, Yanan, China
| | - Shilei Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Songjie Xu
- Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Gao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ming Yan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Zheng HD, Sun YL, Kong DW, Yin MC, Chen J, Lin YP, Ma XF, Wang HS, Yuan GJ, Yao M, Cui XJ, Tian YZ, Wang YJ. Deep learning-based high-accuracy quantitation for lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration from MRI. Nat Commun 2022; 13:841. [PMID: 35149684 PMCID: PMC8837609 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28387-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
To help doctors and patients evaluate lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) accurately and efficiently, we propose a segmentation network and a quantitation method for IVDD from T2MRI. A semantic segmentation network (BianqueNet) composed of three innovative modules achieves high-precision segmentation of IVDD-related regions. A quantitative method is used to calculate the signal intensity and geometric features of IVDD. Manual measurements have excellent agreement with automatic calculations, but the latter have better repeatability and efficiency. We investigate the relationship between IVDD parameters and demographic information (age, gender, position and IVDD grade) in a large population. Considering these parameters present strong correlation with IVDD grade, we establish a quantitative criterion for IVDD. This fully automated quantitation system for IVDD may provide more precise information for clinical practice, clinical trials, and mechanism investigation. It also would increase the number of patients that can be monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Dong Zheng
- School of Automation and Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200072, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Yue-Li Sun
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Spine Research Institute, Shanghai Academy of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education of Chronic Musculoskeletal Disease, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - De-Wei Kong
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Meng-Chen Yin
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education of Chronic Musculoskeletal Disease, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiang Chen
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yong-Peng Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Xue-Feng Ma
- Shenzhen Pingle Orthopedics Hospital, Shenzhen, 518118, China
| | - Hong-Shen Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Guang-Jie Yuan
- School of Automation and Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200072, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Min Yao
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Spine Research Institute, Shanghai Academy of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education of Chronic Musculoskeletal Disease, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xue-Jun Cui
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Spine Research Institute, Shanghai Academy of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education of Chronic Musculoskeletal Disease, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ying-Zhong Tian
- School of Automation and Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200072, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Yong-Jun Wang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Spine Research Institute, Shanghai Academy of TCM, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education of Chronic Musculoskeletal Disease, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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21
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Li W, Zhang S, Wang D, Zhang H, Shi Q, Zhang Y, Wang M, Ding Z, Xu S, Gao B, Yan M. Exosomes Immunity Strategy: A Novel Approach for Ameliorating Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:822149. [PMID: 35223870 PMCID: PMC8870130 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.822149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP), which is one of the most severe medical and social problems globally, has affected nearly 80% of the population worldwide, and intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that happens to be the primary trigger of LBP. The pathology of IDD is based on the impaired homeostasis of catabolism and anabolism in the extracellular matrix (ECM), uncontrolled activation of immunologic cascades, dysfunction, and loss of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells in addition to dynamic cellular and biochemical alterations in the microenvironment of intervertebral disc (IVD). Currently, the main therapeutic approach regarding IDD is surgical intervention, but it could not considerably cure IDD. Exosomes, extracellular vesicles with a diameter of 30–150 nm, are secreted by various kinds of cell types like stem cells, tumor cells, immune cells, and endothelial cells; the lipid bilayer of the exosomes protects them from ribonuclease degradation and helps improve their biological efficiency in recipient cells. Increasing lines of evidence have reported the promising applications of exosomes in immunological diseases, and regarded exosomes as a potential therapeutic source for IDD. This review focuses on clarifying novel therapies based on exosomes derived from different cell sources and the essential roles of exosomes in regulating IDD, especially the immunologic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihang Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shilei Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Yanan University, Yanan, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Quan Shi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yuyuan Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Mo Wang
- The First Brigade of Basic Medical College, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ziyi Ding
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Songjie Xu
- Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Songjie Xu, ; Bo Gao, ; Ming Yan,
| | - Bo Gao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Songjie Xu, ; Bo Gao, ; Ming Yan,
| | - Ming Yan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Songjie Xu, ; Bo Gao, ; Ming Yan,
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22
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Ohnishi T, Iwasaki N, Sudo H. Causes of and Molecular Targets for the Treatment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: A Review. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030394. [PMID: 35159202 PMCID: PMC8834258 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a pathological condition that can lead to intractable back pain or secondary neurological deficits. There is no fundamental cure for this condition, and current treatments focus on alleviating symptoms indirectly. Numerous studies have been performed to date, and the major strategy for all treatments of IVDD is to prevent cell loss due to programmed or regulated cell death. Accumulating evidence suggests that several types of cell death other than apoptosis, including necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, are also involved in IVDD. In this study, we discuss the molecular pathway of each type of cell death and review the literature that has identified their role in IVDD. We also summarize the recent advances in targeted therapy at the RNA level, including RNA modulations through RNA interference and regulation of non-coding RNAs, for preventing cell death and subsequent IVDD. Therefore, we review the causes and possible therapeutic targets for RNA intervention and discuss the future direction of this research field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ohnishi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo 060-8648, Japan;
| | - Norimasa Iwasaki
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan;
| | - Hideki Sudo
- Department of Advanced Medicine for Spine and Spinal Cord Disorders, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
- Correspondence:
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23
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Xin L, Xu W, Wang J, Yu F, Fan S, Xu X, Yang Y. Proteoglycan-depleted regions of annular injury promote nerve ingrowth in a rabbit disc degeneration model. Open Med (Wars) 2021; 16:1616-1627. [PMID: 34761113 PMCID: PMC8565593 DOI: 10.1515/med-2021-0363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To assess the effects of proteoglycan-depleted regions of annular disruptions on nerve ingrowth in the injury site in vivo. Methods New Zealand white rabbits (n = 18) received annular injuries at L3/4, L4/5, and L5/6. The experimental discs were randomly assigned to four groups: (a) an annular defect was created; (b) an annular defect implanted with a poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA)/fibrin/PBS plug; (c) an annular defect implanted with a PLGA/fibrin/chondroitinase ABC (chABC) plug; and (d) an uninjured L2/3 disc (control). Disc degeneration was evaluated by radiography, MRI, histology, and analysis of the proteoglycan (PG) content. Immunohistochemical detection of nerve fibers and chondroitin sulfate (CS) was performed. Results The injured discs produced progressive and reliable disc degeneration. In the defective discs, the lamellated appearance of AF (Annulus fibrosus) was replaced by extensive fibrocartilaginous-like tissue formation outside the injured sites. In contrast, newly formed tissue was distributed along small fissures, and small blood vessels appeared in the outer part of the disrupted area in the PLGA/fibrin/PBS discs. More sprouting nerve fibers grew further into the depleted annulus regions in the PLGA/fibrin/chABC discs than in the control discs and those receiving PLGA/fibrin/PBS. In addition, the innervation scores of the PLGA/fibrin/chABC discs were significantly increased compared with those of the PLGA/fibrin/PBS discs and defected discs. Conclusion ChABC-based PLGA/fibrin gel showed promising results by achieving biointegration with native annulus tissue and providing a local source for the sustained release of active chABC. Disc-derived PG-mediated inhibition of nerve and blood vessel ingrowth was abrogated by chABC enzymatic deglycosylation in an annular-injured rabbit disc degeneration model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Xin
- Department of Spine Surgery, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Weixin Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Fang Yu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Shunwu Fan
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310020, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xinwei Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, No. 234 Gucui Road, Hangzhou 310012, Zhejiang Province, China
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24
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The potential role of melatonin in retarding intervertebral disc ageing and degeneration: A systematic review. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 70:101394. [PMID: 34139338 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a common degenerative disease of the musculoskeletal system that develops with age. It is regarded as the main cause of chronic low back pain in the elderly. IDD has various causes, including ageing, mechanical overloading, and nutritional deficiency. Melatonin is a pleiotropic indole hormone secreted by the pineal gland and plays an important role in resisting various degenerative diseases. The serum levels of melatonin decline with age and are reported to be negatively correlated with the symptomatic and histopathological scores of IDD. In vivo studies have shown that exogenous administration of melatonin could maintain the structural integrity of the intervertebral disc and inhibit the development of IDD. Mechanistically, by interacting with its membrane or intracellular receptors, melatonin can promote autophagic flux, scavenge free radicals, inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory factors, and block apoptotic pathways, thereby enhancing anti-stress abilities and matrix anabolism in different types of disc cells. Therefore, melatonin supplementation may be a promising therapeutic strategy for IDD. This review aimed to summarize the latest findings regarding the therapeutic potential of melatonin in IDD.
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25
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Żak M, Pezowicz C. Effect of overload on changes in mechanical and structural properties of the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2021; 20:2259-2267. [PMID: 34431033 PMCID: PMC8595169 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-021-01505-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The research focussed on analysing structural and mechanical properties in the intervertebral disc (IVD), caused by long-term cyclic loading. Spinal motion segments were divided into two groups: the control (C), and the group in which it was analysed the impact of posterior column in the load-bearing system of the spine-specimens with intact posterior column (IPC) and without posterior column (WPC). To evaluate the structural and mechanical changes, the specimens were tested with simulation of 100,000 compression-flexion load cycles after which it was performed macroscopic analysis. Mechanical properties of the annulus fibrosis (AF) from the anterior and posterior regions of the IVD were tested at the uniaxial tension test. The stiffness coefficient values were statistically 32% higher in the WPC group (110 N/mm) than in the IPC (79 N/mm). The dynamics of increase in this parameter does not correspond with the course of decrease in height loss. WPC segments revealed clear structural changes that mainly involve the posterior regions of the IVD (bulging and delamination with the effect of separation of collagen fibre bundles). Pathological changes also caused decreases in the value of stress in the AF. The greatest changes in the stress value about group C (7.43 ± 4.49 MPa) were observed in the front part of the fibrous ring, where this value was for IPC 4.49 ± 4.78 MPa and WPC 2.56 ± 1.01 MPa. The research indicates that the applied load model allows simulating damage that occurs in pathological IVD. And the posterior column's presence affects this change's dynamics, structural and mechanical properties of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Żak
- Department of Mechanics, Materials and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Łukasiewicza 7/9, 50-371, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Celina Pezowicz
- Department of Mechanics, Materials and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Łukasiewicza 7/9, 50-371, Wrocław, Poland
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26
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Inoue M, Isa ILM, Orita S, Suzuki-Narita M, Inage K, Shiga Y, Norimoto M, Umimura T, Sakai T, Eguchi Y, Watanabe A, Aoki Y, Pandit A, Ohtori S. An Injectable Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel Promotes Intervertebral Disc Repair in a Rabbit Model. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2021; 46:E810-E816. [PMID: 34228691 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000003921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN An in vivo model to study the effect of an injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel following puncture-induced lumbar disc injury in rabbits. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of an injectable HA hydrogel to maintain disc height and tissue hydration, promote structural repair, and attenuate inflammation and innervation in the lumbar discs. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Previously, we have demonstrated that HA hydrogel alleviated inflammation, innervation, and pain to promote disc repair. Nevertheless, the effect of an injectable HA hydrogel in the lumbar disc in a weight-bearing animal model was not performed. METHODS We have adopted a surgically puncture-induced disc injury at lumbar levels in a rabbit model. The discs were grouped into sham, puncture with water injection, and puncture with HA hydrogel injection. Postoperatively, we measured changes in disc height using x-ray. We used magnetic resonance imaging to assess disc degeneration on tissue hydration after euthanasia. Post-mortem, we determined histological changes, innervation (PGP9.5) and inflammation (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) in the discs. RESULTS We have demonstrated a significant reduction of disc height and T2/T1ρ mapping with histological evidence of degenerative discs, increase of innervation and inflammation in puncture-induced disc injury over time. In the HA hydrogel group, disc height was increased at weeks four and eight. A slight increase of T2 mapping, but significantly in T1ρ mapping, was observed in the HA hydrogel group at week 8. We observed homogenous NP distribution and organised AF lamellae at week eight and a slight reduced innervation score in the treatment group. HA hydrogel significantly downregulated IL-6 expression at day 1. This, however, was only slightly reduced for IL-1β and TNF-α. CONCLUSION An injectable HA hydrogel had the protective effects in suppressing the loss of disc height, promoting tissue hydration for structural repair, and attenuating inflammation and innervation to prevent further disc degeneration.Level of Evidence: N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Inoue
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Eastern Chiba Medical Center, Togane, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Isma Liza Mohd Isa
- SFI Research Center for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland.,Department of Orthopedic and Traumatology, The National University of Malaysia, Malaysia
| | - Sumihisa Orita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Miyako Suzuki-Narita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Inage
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Shiga
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Masaki Norimoto
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Toho University of Sakura Hospital, Sakura, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tomotaka Umimura
- Department of Orthopaedic surgery, Sanmu medical center, Sanmu, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takayuki Sakai
- Department of Radiology, Eastern Chiba Medical Center, Togane, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yawara Eguchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Atsuya Watanabe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Eastern Chiba Medical Center, Togane, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yasuchika Aoki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Eastern Chiba Medical Center, Togane, Chiba, Japan
| | - Abhay Pandit
- SFI Research Center for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
| | - Seiji Ohtori
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chuo-ku, Japan
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27
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Groh AMR, Fournier DE, Battié MC, Séguin CA. Innervation of the Human Intervertebral Disc: A Scoping Review. PAIN MEDICINE 2021; 22:1281-1304. [PMID: 33595648 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnab070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Back pain is an elusive symptom complicated by a variety of possible causes, precipitating and maintaining factors, and consequences. Notably, the underlying pathology remains unknown in a significant number of cases. Changes to the intervertebral disc (IVD) have been associated with back pain, leading many to postulate that the IVD may be a direct source of pain, typically referred to as discogenic back pain. Yet despite decades of research into the neuroanatomy of the IVD, there is a lack of consensus in the literature as to the distribution and function of neural elements within the tissue. The current scoping review provides a comprehensive systematic overview of studies that document the topography, morphology, and immunoreactivity of neural elements within the IVD in humans. METHOD Articles were retrieved from six separate databases in a three-step systematic search and were independently evaluated by two reviewers. RESULTS Three categories of neural elements were described within the IVD: perivascular nerves, sensory nerves independent of blood vessels, and mechanoreceptors. Nerves were consistently localized within the outer layers of the annulus fibrosus. Neural ingrowth into the inner annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus was found to occur only in degenerative and disease states. CONCLUSION While the pattern of innervation within the IVD is clear, the specific topographic arrangement and function of neural elements in the context of back pain remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M R Groh
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, The Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Dale E Fournier
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Physical Therapy), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Bone and Joint Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michele C Battié
- Bone and Joint Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cheryle A Séguin
- Bone and Joint Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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28
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Pediatric fibrocartilaginous spine embolism induced by trauma. Radiol Case Rep 2021; 16:1951-1955. [PMID: 34149981 PMCID: PMC8193072 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2021.04.068] [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: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrocartilaginous embolic infarction of the spinal cord is a rare cause of acute back pain and motor weakness. Most symptoms start after minor trauma that is often considered harmless and forgotten, however these minor injuries can result in lethal consequences. It is quite rare to diagnose fibrocartilaginous embolism in a timely manner and start treatment to prevent poor outcomes. We present the case of a previously healthy eight-year-old female with sudden onset neck pain and progressive bilateral upper extremity weakness following an injury while playing with her younger sister. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spinal cord without contrast revealed a posterior disc protrusion suggestive of post-traumatic spinal cord infarction due to fibrocartilaginous embolism. In young, otherwise healthy, patients with acute motor deficits, radiographic imaging can help identify rare presentations like fibrocartilaginous embolism in order to rapidly diagnose and efficiently treat such patients.
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29
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Le Maitre CL, Dahia CL, Giers M, Illien‐Junger S, Cicione C, Samartzis D, Vadala G, Fields A, Lotz J. Development of a standardized histopathology scoring system for human intervertebral disc degeneration: an Orthopaedic Research Society Spine Section Initiative. JOR Spine 2021; 4:e1167. [PMID: 34337340 PMCID: PMC8313169 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Histopathological analysis of intervertebral disc (IVD) tissues is a critical domain of back pain research. Identification, description, and classification of attributes that distinguish abnormal tissues form a basis for probing disease mechanisms and conceiving novel therapies. Unfortunately, lack of standardized methods and nomenclature can limit comparisons of results across studies and prevent organizing information into a clear representation of the hierarchical, spatial, and temporal patterns of IVD degeneration. Thus, the following Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS) Spine Section Initiative aimed to develop a standardized histopathology scoring scheme for human IVD degeneration. METHODS Guided by a working group of experts, this prospective process entailed a series of stages that consisted of reviewing and assessing past grading schemes, surveying IVD researchers globally on current practice and recommendations for a new grading system, utilizing expert opinion a taxonomy of histological grading was developed, and validation performed. RESULTS A standardized taxonomy was developed, which showed excellent intra-rater reliability for scoring nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF), and cartilaginous end plate (CEP) regions (interclass correlation [ICC] > .89). The ability to reliably detect subtle changes varied by IVD region, being poorest in the NP (ICC: .89-.95) where changes at the cellular level were important, vs the AF (ICC: .93-.98), CEP (ICC: .97-.98), and boney end plate (ICC: .96-.99) where matrix and structural changes varied more dramatically with degeneration. CONCLUSIONS The proposed grading system incorporates more comprehensive descriptions of degenerative features for all the IVD sub-tissues than prior criteria. While there was excellent reliability, our results reinforce the need for improved training, particularly for novice raters. Future evaluation of the proposed system in real-world settings (eg, at the microscope) will be needed to further refine criteria and more fully evaluate utility. This improved taxonomy could aid in the understanding of IVD degeneration phenotypes and their association with back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chitra L. Dahia
- Orthopaedic Soft Tissue Research ProgramHospital for Special SurgeryNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Cell and Developmental BiologyWeill Cornell Medicine, Graduate School of Medical SciencesNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Morgan Giers
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental EngineeringOregon State UniversityCorvallisOregonUSA
| | | | - Claudia Cicione
- Laboratory of Regenerative Orthopaedics, Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma SurgeryCampus Bio‐Medico University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Dino Samartzis
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
- International Spine Research and Innovation InitiativeRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Gianluca Vadala
- Laboratory of Regenerative Orthopaedics, Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma SurgeryCampus Bio‐Medico University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Aaron Fields
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of California at San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jeffrey Lotz
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of California at San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
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30
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Zheng K, Du D. Recent advances of hydrogel-based biomaterials for intervertebral disc tissue treatment: A literature review. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2021; 15:299-321. [PMID: 33660950 DOI: 10.1002/term.3172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Low back pain is an increasingly prevalent symptom mainly associated with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. It is highly correlated with aging, as the nucleus pulposus (NP) dehydrates and annulus fibrosus fissure formatting, which finally results in the IVD herniation and related clinical symptoms. Hydrogels have been drawing increasing attention as the ideal candidates for IVD degeneration because of their unique properties such as biocompatibility, highly tunable mechanical properties, and especially the water absorption and retention ability resembling the normal NP tissue. Numerous innovative hydrogel polymers have been generated in the most recent years. This review article will first briefly describe the anatomy and pathophysiology of IVDs and current therapies with their limitations. Following that, the article introduces the hydrogel materials in the classification of their origins. Next, it reviews the recent hydrogel polymers explored for IVD regeneration and analyses what efforts have been made to overcome the existing limitations. Finally, the challenges and prospects of hydrogel-based treatments for IVD tissue are also discussed. We believe that these novel hydrogel-based strategies may shed light on new possibilities in IVD degeneration disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiwen Zheng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Dajiang Du
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
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31
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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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32
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Lyu FJ, Cui H, Pan H, MC Cheung K, Cao X, Iatridis JC, Zheng Z. Painful intervertebral disc degeneration and inflammation: from laboratory evidence to clinical interventions. Bone Res 2021; 9:7. [PMID: 33514693 PMCID: PMC7846842 DOI: 10.1038/s41413-020-00125-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP), as a leading cause of disability, is a common musculoskeletal disorder that results in major social and economic burdens. Recent research has identified inflammation and related signaling pathways as important factors in the onset and progression of disc degeneration, a significant contributor to LBP. Inflammatory mediators also play an indispensable role in discogenic LBP. The suppression of LBP is a primary goal of clinical practice but has not received enough attention in disc research studies. Here, an overview of the advances in inflammation-related pain in disc degeneration is provided, with a discussion on the role of inflammation in IVD degeneration and pain induction. Puncture models, mechanical models, and spontaneous models as the main animal models to study painful disc degeneration are discussed, and the underlying signaling pathways are summarized. Furthermore, potential drug candidates, either under laboratory investigation or undergoing clinical trials, to suppress discogenic LBP by eliminating inflammation are explored. We hope to attract more research interest to address inflammation and pain in IDD and contribute to promoting more translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Juan Lyu
- grid.79703.3a0000 0004 1764 3838School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haowen Cui
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XDepartment of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hehai Pan
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XBreast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kenneth MC Cheung
- grid.194645.b0000000121742757Department of Orthopedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Xu Cao
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - James C. Iatridis
- grid.59734.3c0000 0001 0670 2351Leni and Peter W. May Department of Orthopedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY USA
| | - Zhaomin Zheng
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XDepartment of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XPain Research Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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33
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Fu F, Bao R, Yao S, Zhou C, Luo H, Zhang Z, Zhang H, Li Y, Yan S, Yu H, Du W, Yang Y, Jin H, Tong P, Sun ZT, Yue M, Chen D, Wu C, Ruan H. Aberrant spinal mechanical loading stress triggers intervertebral disc degeneration by inducing pyroptosis and nerve ingrowth. Sci Rep 2021; 11:772. [PMID: 33437038 PMCID: PMC7804398 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80756-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant mechanical factor is one of the etiologies of the intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IVDD). However, the exact molecular mechanism of spinal mechanical loading stress-induced IVDD has yet to be elucidated due to a lack of an ideal and stable IVDD animal model. The present study aimed to establish a stable IVDD mouse model and evaluated the effect of aberrant spinal mechanical loading on the pathogenesis of IVDD. Eight-week-old male mice were treated with lumbar spine instability (LSI) surgery to induce IVDD. The progression of IVDD was evaluated by μCT and Safranin O/Fast green staining analysis. The metabolism of extracellular matrix, ingrowth of sensory nerves, pyroptosis in IVDs tissues were determined by immunohistological or real-time PCR analysis. The apoptosis of IVD cells was tested by TUNEL assay. IVDD modeling was successfully produced by LSI surgery, with substantial reductions in IVD height, BS/TV, Tb.N. and lower IVD score. LSI administration led to the histologic change of disc degeneration, disruption of the matrix metabolism, promotion of apoptosis of IVD cells and invasion of sensory nerves into annulus fibrosus, as well as induction of pyroptosis. Moreover, LSI surgery activated Wnt signaling in IVD tissues. Mechanical instability caused by LSI surgery accelerates the disc matrix degradation, nerve invasion, pyroptosis, and eventually lead to IVDD, which provided an alternative mouse IVDD model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangda Fu
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.,The First Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310051, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ronghua Bao
- Hangzhou Fuyang Hospital of TCM Orthopedics and Traumatology, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sai Yao
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.,The First Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310051, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengcong Zhou
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.,The First Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310051, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huan Luo
- Department of Pharmacy, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.,The First Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310051, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huihao Zhang
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.,The First Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310051, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Li
- The First Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310051, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuxin Yan
- The First Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310051, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huan Yu
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.,Research Center for Human Tissues and Organs Degeneration, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,The First Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310051, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weibin Du
- Research Institute of Orthopedics, the Affiliated JiangNan Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 311200, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanping Yang
- Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hongting Jin
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peijian Tong
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhi-Tao Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ming Yue
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Di Chen
- Research Center for Human Tissues and Organs Degeneration, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Chengliang Wu
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Hongfeng Ruan
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China. .,Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Baumgartner L, Wuertz-Kozak K, Le Maitre CL, Wignall F, Richardson SM, Hoyland J, Ruiz Wills C, González Ballester MA, Neidlin M, Alexopoulos LG, Noailly J. Multiscale Regulation of the Intervertebral Disc: Achievements in Experimental, In Silico, and Regenerative Research. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E703. [PMID: 33445782 PMCID: PMC7828304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a major risk factor of low back pain. It is defined by a progressive loss of the IVD structure and functionality, leading to severe impairments with restricted treatment options due to the highly demanding mechanical exposure of the IVD. Degenerative changes in the IVD usually increase with age but at an accelerated rate in some individuals. To understand the initiation and progression of this disease, it is crucial to identify key top-down and bottom-up regulations' processes, across the cell, tissue, and organ levels, in health and disease. Owing to unremitting investigation of experimental research, the comprehension of detailed cell signaling pathways and their effect on matrix turnover significantly rose. Likewise, in silico research substantially contributed to a holistic understanding of spatiotemporal effects and complex, multifactorial interactions within the IVD. Together with important achievements in the research of biomaterials, manifold promising approaches for regenerative treatment options were presented over the last years. This review provides an integrative analysis of the current knowledge about (1) the multiscale function and regulation of the IVD in health and disease, (2) the possible regenerative strategies, and (3) the in silico models that shall eventually support the development of advanced therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Baumgartner
- BCN MedTech, Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (C.R.W.); (M.A.G.B.)
| | - Karin Wuertz-Kozak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Rochester, NY 14623, USA;
- Schön Clinic Munich Harlaching, Spine Center, Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg (Austria), 81547 Munich, Germany
| | - Christine L. Le Maitre
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S1 1WB, UK;
| | - Francis Wignall
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (F.W.); (S.M.R.); (J.H.)
| | - Stephen M. Richardson
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (F.W.); (S.M.R.); (J.H.)
| | - Judith Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (F.W.); (S.M.R.); (J.H.)
| | - Carlos Ruiz Wills
- BCN MedTech, Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (C.R.W.); (M.A.G.B.)
| | - Miguel A. González Ballester
- BCN MedTech, Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (C.R.W.); (M.A.G.B.)
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Pg. Lluis Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michael Neidlin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Athens, Greece; (M.N.); (L.G.A.)
| | - Leonidas G. Alexopoulos
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Athens, Greece; (M.N.); (L.G.A.)
| | - Jérôme Noailly
- BCN MedTech, Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08018 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (C.R.W.); (M.A.G.B.)
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35
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Zhang S, Hu B, Liu W, Wang P, Lv X, Chen S, Shao Z. The role of structure and function changes of sensory nervous system in intervertebral disc-related low back pain. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2021; 29:17-27. [PMID: 33007412 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal symptom, which can be developed in multiple clinical diseases. It is widely recognized that intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IVDD) is one of the leading causes of LBP. However, the pathogenesis of IVD-related LBP is still controversial, and the treatment means are also insufficient to date. In recent decades, the role of structure and function changes of sensory nervous system in the induction and the maintenance of LBP is drawing more and more attention. With the progress of IVDD, IVD cell exhaustion and extracellular matrix degradation result in IVD structural damage, while neovascularization, innervation and inflammatory activation further deteriorate the microenvironment of IVD. New nerve ingrowth into degenerated IVD amplifies the impacts of IVD-derived nociceptive molecules on sensory endings. Moreover, IVDD is usually accompanied with disc herniation, which could injure and inflame affected nerves. Under mechanical and pro-inflammatory stimulation, the pain-transmitting pathway exhibits a sensitized function state and ultimately leads to LBP. Hence, relevant pathogenic factors, such as neurotrophins, ion channels, inflammatory factors, etc., are supposed to serve as promising therapeutic targets for LBP. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively summarize the current evidence on 1) the pathological changes of sensory nervous system during IVDD and their association with LBP, and 2) potential therapeutic strategies for LBP targeting relevant pathogenic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - B Hu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - W Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - P Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - X Lv
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - S Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
| | - Z Shao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
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36
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Fournier DE, Kiser PK, Shoemaker JK, Battié MC, Séguin CA. Vascularization of the human intervertebral disc: A scoping review. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1123. [PMID: 33392458 PMCID: PMC7770199 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral discs (IVDs) are often referred to as the largest avascular structures of the human body, yet a collective resource characterizing the vascularization of the IVD does not exist. To address this gap, the objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive search of the literature to review and summarize current knowledge of the prevalence and localization of blood supply in human IVDs, with a scoping review. A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed publications on the topic of IVD vascularization in humans was conducted across six electronic databases: PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and BIOSIS Previews. Studies of humans were included regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, and health status, with the exception of IVD herniation. Two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts and full-texts according to eligibility criteria. The review was conducted and reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. Our search yielded 3122 articles, with 22 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. The study samples ranged in age from fetal to >90 years and included both sexes, various health statuses, and used different methodologies (eg, histology, medical imaging, and gross dissection) to assess vasculature. Overall, consistent observations were that (a) the nucleus pulposus of the IVD is avascular throughout life, (b) both the cartilage endplates and annulus fibrosus receive considerable blood supply early in life that diminishes over the lifespan, and (c) vascular ingrowth into the cartilage endplates and inner layers of the annulus fibrosus is commonly associated with damaged or disrupted tissue, irrespective of age. Histology and immunohistochemistry are often used to report vascularization of the IVD. The body of the current literature suggests that the IVD should not be generalized as an avascular tissue. Instead, vascularization of the IVD differs based on the constituent tissues, their age, and state of degeneration or damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale E. Fournier
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Physical Therapy), Faculty of Health SciencesThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
- Bone and Joint InstituteThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Patti K. Kiser
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - J. Kevin Shoemaker
- Bone and Joint InstituteThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health SciencesThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Michele C. Battié
- Bone and Joint InstituteThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
- School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health SciencesThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Cheryle A. Séguin
- Bone and Joint InstituteThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryThe University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
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37
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Sun Z, Zhao H, Liu B, Gao Y, Tang WH, Liu ZH, Luo ZJ. AF cell derived exosomes regulate endothelial cell migration and inflammation: Implications for vascularization in intervertebral disc degeneration. Life Sci 2020; 265:118778. [PMID: 33217442 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The intervertebral disc is the largest avascular organ of the body. Vascularization of the disc has been typically regarded as a pathological feature of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). However, the underlying mechanism of vascularization in IDD is still unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the role of AF cell derived exosome (AF-exo) in the interaction with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and its potential role in the regulation of vascularization in IDD. MAIN METHODS Human AF tissues were obtained from patients with IDD and idiopathic scoliosis. The AF-exo were isolated and identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle trafficking analysis (NTA) and Western blotting. Then, the AF-exo were used for HUVECs cultures. The migration of HUVECs was observed in 2D and 3D cultures. The inflammatory phenotype of HUVECs was examined by Real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Additionally, apoptosis of HUVECs were analyzed by flow cytometry. KEY FINDINGS Here, we for the first time found that AF cells could secrete AF-exo and that the AF-exo could be phagocytosed by HUVECs. Additionally, we found that degenerated AF-exo exerted pro-vascularization effect on HUVECs by promoting cell migration (in 2D and 3D cultures) and inflammatory factor expression including IL-6, TNF-α, MMP-3, MMP-13 and VEGF, whereas the application of non-degenerated AF-exo demonstrated inverse effects. SIGNIFICANCE These results showed that AF-exo is an essential regulator mediating intercellular communication between AF cells and HUVECs, suggesting its important role in vascularization in the intervertebral disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Sun
- Department of Orthopedic, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Western Changle Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, PR China.
| | - Hang Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Western Changle Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, PR China; Department of Pharmacy, The 456th Hospital of the People's Liberation Army, Jinan, PR China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Radiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Western Changle Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, PR China
| | - Yang Gao
- Department of Orthopedic, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Western Changle Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, PR China
| | - Wen-Hao Tang
- Department of Orthopedic, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Western Changle Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, PR China
| | - Zhi-Heng Liu
- Department of Orthopedic, 986 Air Force Hospital of China, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, PR China
| | - Zhuo-Jing Luo
- Department of Orthopedic, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Western Changle Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, PR China.
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38
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Hodgkinson T, Gilbert HTJ, Pandya T, Diwan AD, Hoyland JA, Richardson SM. Regenerative Response of Degenerate Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells to GDF6 Stimulation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7143. [PMID: 32992671 PMCID: PMC7582366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor (GDF) family members have been implicated in the development and maintenance of healthy nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue, making them promising therapeutic candidates for treatment of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and associated back pain. GDF6 has been shown to promote discogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, but its effect on NP cells remains largely unknown. Our aim was to investigate GDF6 signalling in adult human NP cells derived from degenerate tissue and determine the signal transduction pathways critical for GDF6-mediated phenotypic changes and tissue homeostatic mechanisms. This study demonstrates maintained expression of GDF6 receptors in human NP and annulus fibrosus (AF) cells across a range of degeneration grades at gene and protein level. We observed an anabolic response in NP cells treated with recombinant GDF6 (increased expression of matrix and NP-phenotypic markers; increased glycosaminoglycan production; no change in catabolic enzyme expression), and identified the signalling pathways involved in these responses (SMAD1/5/8 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, validated by blocking studies). These findings suggest that GDF6 promotes a healthy disc tissue phenotype in degenerate NP cells through SMAD-dependent and -independent (ERK1/2) mechanisms, which is important for development of GDF6 therapeutic strategies for treatment of degenerate discs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Hodgkinson
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
| | - Hamish T. J. Gilbert
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
| | - Tej Pandya
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
| | - Ashish D. Diwan
- St George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia;
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
| | - Stephen M. Richardson
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
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39
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Wu B, Yang L, Peng B. Ingrowth of Nociceptive Receptors into Diseased Cervical Intervertebral Disc Is Associated with Discogenic Neck Pain. PAIN MEDICINE 2020; 20:1072-1077. [PMID: 30848823 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnz013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the distribution of nociceptive nerve fibers in the cervical intervertebral discs of patients with chronic neck pain and determine whether these nociceptive nerve fibers are related to discogenic neck pain. METHODS We collected 43 samples of cervical intervertebral discs from 34 patients with severe chronic neck pain (visual analog scale [VAS] ≥ 70 mm), 42 samples from 36 patients who suffered cervical spondylotic radiculopathy or myelopathy without neck pain or with mild neck pain (VAS ≤ 30 mm) and 32 samples from eight donators to investigate their innervation immunohistochemically using an antibody against neuropeptide substance P. RESULTS The immunohistochemical investigation revealed that substance P-positive nerve fibers were obviously increased in number and deeply ingrown into the inner anulus fibrosus and even into the nucleus pulposus in the degenerative cervical discs of patients with severe neck pain in comparison with the discs of patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy or myelopathy and normal control discs (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS The current study may indicate a key role of nociceptive nerve fibers in the pathogenesis of neck pain of cervical disc origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University Postgraduate Training Base,Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Liang Yang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University Postgraduate Training Base,Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Baogan Peng
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University Postgraduate Training Base,Beijing, P.R. China
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He M, Pang J, Sun H, Zheng G, Lin Y, Ge W. P14ARF inhibits regional inflammation and vascularization in intervertebral disc degeneration by upregulating TIMP3. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 318:C751-C761. [PMID: 32023075 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00271.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we identified P14 alternate reading frame (P14ARF) as a novel regulator of inflammation and vascularization in intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD). We collected IVD tissues from IVDD patients and normal individuals for analysis of P14ARF expression. We also induced experimental IVDD by needle puncture injuries in the caudal intervertebral disks of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and achieved recombinant adenovirus-mediated P14ARF overexpression in experimental IVDD rats. Regulation relationships between P14ARF and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-3 (TIMP3) were confirmed in P14ARF-overexpressed and TIMP3-depleted nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. Tube formation in vitro was evaluated in coculture systems of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and rat degenerated NP cells (DNPCs). Inflammatory response was assessed from levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and neovascularization from expression of endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The P14ARF and TIMP3 were downregulated in degenerated IVD tissue derived from patients and experimental IVDD rats. Overexpressed P14ARF suppressed inflammatory cytokine levels and vascularization. There was decreased in vitro tube formation in response to P14ARF overexpression and TIMP3 elevation. Finally, attenuated inflammatory responses and suppression of VEGF were achieved by P14ARF-mediated promotion of TIMP3 in rat DNPCs. Taken together, the present study reveals that P14ARF/TIMP3 modulation of inflammatory response and vascularization in the context of IVDD highlights a potential target for future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingwei He
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinlei Pang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haiyan Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guanrong Zheng
- Department of Pain, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Lin
- Department of Pain, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weipeng Ge
- Department of Pain, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
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Long RG, Ferguson SJ, Benneker LM, Sakai D, Li Z, Pandit A, Grijpma DW, Eglin D, Zeiter S, Schmid T, Eberli U, Nehrbass D, Di Pauli von Treuheim T, Alini M, Iatridis JC, Grad S. Morphological and biomechanical effects of annulus fibrosus injury and repair in an ovine cervical model. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1074. [PMID: 32211587 PMCID: PMC7084058 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue engineering repair of annulus fibrosus (AF) defects has the potential to prevent disability and pain from intervertebral disc (IVD) herniation and its progression to degeneration. Clinical translation of AF repair methods requires assessment in long-term large animal models. An ovine AF injury model was developed using cervical spinal levels and a biopsy-type AF defect to assess composite tissue engineering repair in 1-month and 12-month studies. The repair used a fibrin hydrogel crosslinked with genipin (FibGen) to seal defects, poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) scaffolds to replace lost AF tissue, and polyurethane membranes to prevent herniation. In the 1-month study, PTMC scaffolds sealed with FibGen herniated with polyurethane membranes. When applied alone, FibGen integrated with the surrounding AF tissue without herniation, showing promise for long-term studies. The 12-month long-term study used only FibGen which showed fibrous healing, biomaterial resorption and no obvious hydrogel-related complications. However, the 2 mm biopsy punch injury condition also exhibited fibrotic healing at 12 months. Both untreated and FibGen treated groups showed equivalency with no detectable differences in histological grades of proteoglycans, cellular morphology, IVD structure and blood vessel formation, biomechanical properties including torque range and axial range of motion, Pfirrmann grade, IVD height, and quantitative scores of vertebral body changes from clinical computed tomography. The biopsy-type injury caused endplate defects with a high prevalence of osteophytes in all groups and no nucleus herniation, indicating that the biopsy-type injury requires further refinement, such as reduction to a slit-type defect that could penetrate the full depth of the AF without damaging the endplate. Results demonstrate translational feasibility of FibGen for AF repair to seal AF defects, although future study with a more refined injury model is required to validate the efficacy of FibGen before translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose G. Long
- Department of GeneticsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusetts
| | | | - Lorin M. Benneker
- Department for Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Unit, InselspitalUniversity Hospital of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Daisuke Sakai
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryTokai University School of MedicineKanagawaJapan
| | - Zhen Li
- AO Research Institute DavosDavos PlatzSwitzerland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- CÚRAM, Center for Research in Medical DevicesNational University of IrelandGalwayIreland
| | - Dirk W. Grijpma
- University of Twente, Technical Medical CentreDepartment of Biomaterials Science and TechnologyFaculty of Science and TechnologyEnschedeThe Netherlands
| | - David Eglin
- AO Research Institute DavosDavos PlatzSwitzerland
| | | | - Tanja Schmid
- AO Research Institute DavosDavos PlatzSwitzerland
| | | | | | | | - Mauro Alini
- AO Research Institute DavosDavos PlatzSwitzerland
| | - James C. Iatridis
- Leni & Peter W. May Department of OrthopaedicsIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew York
| | - Sibylle Grad
- AO Research Institute DavosDavos PlatzSwitzerland
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Sun Z, Liu B, Luo ZJ. The Immune Privilege of the Intervertebral Disc: Implications for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Treatment. Int J Med Sci 2020; 17:685-692. [PMID: 32210719 PMCID: PMC7085207 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.42238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is the largest avascular organ of the body. It is composed of three parts: the nucleus pulposus (NP), the annulus fibrosus (AF) and the cartilaginous endplate (CEP). The central NP is surrounded by the AF and sandwiched by the two CEPs ever since its formation. This unique structure isolates the NP from the immune system of the host. Additionally, molecular factors expressed in IVD have been shown inhibitive effect on immune cells and cytokines infiltration. Therefore, the IVD has been identified as an immune privilege organ. The steady state of immune privilege is fundamental to the homeostasis of the IVD. The AF and the CEP, along with the immunosuppressive molecular factors are defined as the blood-NP barrier (BNB), which establishes a strong barrier to isolate the NP from the host immune system. When the BNB is damaged, the auto-immune response of the NP occurs with various downstream cascade reactions. This effect plays an important role in the whole process of IVD degeneration and related complications, such as herniation, sciatica and spontaneous herniated NP regression. Taken together, an enhanced understanding of the immune privilege of the IVD could provide new targets for the treatment of symptomatic IVD disease. However, the underlying mechanism above is still not fully clarified. Accordingly, the current study will extensively review and discuss studies regarding the immune privilege of the IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Sun
- Department of Orthopedic, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University. Western Changle Road, Xi'an, 710032, Shannxi Provence, P. R. China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Radiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University. Western Changle Road, Xi'an, 710032, Shannxi Provence, P. R. China
| | - Zhuo-Jing Luo
- Department of Orthopedic, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University. Western Changle Road, Xi'an, 710032, Shannxi Provence, P. R. China
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Physical disruption of intervertebral disc promotes cell clustering and a degenerative phenotype. Cell Death Discov 2019; 5:154. [PMID: 31871771 PMCID: PMC6917743 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-019-0233-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
To test the hypothesis that physical disruption of an intervertebral disc disturbs cell-matrix binding, leading to cell clustering and increased expression of matrix degrading enzymes that contribute towards degenerative disc cell phenotype. Lumbar disc tissue was removed at surgery from 21 patients with disc herniation, 11 with disc degeneration, and 8 with adolescent scoliosis. 5 μm sections were examined with histology, and 30-µm sections by confocal microscopy. Antibodies were used against integrin α5beta1, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 1, MMP-3, caspase 3, and denatured collagen types I and II. Spatial associations were sought between cell clustering and various degenerative features. An additional, 11 non-herniated human discs were used to examine causality: half of each specimen was cultured in a manner that allowed free 'unconstrained' swelling (similar to a herniated disc in vivo), while the other half was cultured within a perspex ring that allowed 'constrained' swelling. Changes were monitored over 36 h using live-cell imaging. 1,9-Di-methyl methylene blue (DMMB) assay for glycosaminoglycan loss was carried out from tissue medium. Partially constrained specimens showed little swelling or cell movement in vitro. In contrast, unconstrained swelling significantly increased matrix distortion, glycosaminoglycan loss, exposure of integrin binding sites, expression of MMPs 1 and 3, and collagen denaturation. In the association studies, herniated disc specimens showed changes that resembled unconstrained swelling in vitro. In addition, they exhibited increased cell clustering, apoptosis, MMP expression, and collagen denaturation compared to 'control' discs. Results support our hypothesis. Further confirmation will require longitudinal animal experiments.
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Binch ALA, Richardson SM, Hoyland JA, Barry FP. Combinatorial conditioning of adipose derived-mesenchymal stem cells enhances their neurovascular potential: Implications for intervertebral disc degeneration. JOR Spine 2019; 2:e1072. [PMID: 31891121 PMCID: PMC6920684 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are becoming an increasingly attractive option for regenerative therapies due to their availability, self-renewal capacity, multilineage potential, and anti-inflammatory properties. Clinical trials are underway to test the efficacy of stem cell-based therapies for the repair and regeneration of the degenerate intervertebral disc (IVD), a major cause of back pain. Recently, both bone marrow-derived MSCs and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) have been assessed for IVD therapy but there is a lack of knowledge surrounding the optimal cell source and the response of transplanted cells to the low oxygen, pro-inflammatory niche of the degenerate disc. Here, we investigated several neurovascular factors from donor-matched MSCs and ASCs that may potentiate the survival and persistence of sensory nerve fibers and blood vessels present within painful degenerate discs and their regulation by oxygen tensions and inflammatory cytokines. METHODS Donor-matched ASCs and MSCs were conditioned with either IL-1β or TNFα under normoxic (21% O2) or hypoxic (5% O2) conditions. Expression and secretion of several potent neurovascular factors were assessed using qRT-PCR and human magnetic Luminex assay. RESULTS ASCs and MSCs expressed constitutive levels of key neurotrophic factors; and stimulation of ASCs with hypoxia triggered increased secretion of both angiogenic factors (Ang-2 and VEGF-A) and neurotrophic (NGF and NT-3) compared to MSCs. We also report increased transcriptional regulation of pain-associated neuropeptides in hypoxia stimulated ASCs compared to those in normoxic conditions. We demonstrate transcriptional and translational upregulation of NGF, NT-3, Ang-1, and FGF-2 in response to cytokines in ASCs in 21% and 5% O2. CONCLUSIONS This work highlights fundamental differences between the neurovascular secretome of donor-matched ASCs and MSCs, demonstrating the importance of cell-selection for tissue specific regeneration to reduce ectopic sensory nerve and blood vessel survival and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbie. L. A. Binch
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway)GalwayIreland
| | - Stephen M. Richardson
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthManchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthManchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of ManchesterManchesterUK
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science CentreManchesterUK
| | - Frank P. Barry
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway)GalwayIreland
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45
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Claeson AA, Vresilovic EJ, Showalter BL, Wright AC, Gee JC, Malhotra NR, Elliott DM. Human Disc Nucleotomy Alters Annulus Fibrosus Mechanics at Both Reference and Compressed Loads. J Biomech Eng 2019; 141:1110011-11100112. [PMID: 31141601 PMCID: PMC6808005 DOI: 10.1115/1.4043874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Nucleotomy is a common surgical procedure and is also performed in ex vivo mechanical testing to model decreased nucleus pulposus (NP) pressurization that occurs with degeneration. Here, we implement novel and noninvasive methods using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to study internal 3D annulus fibrosus (AF) deformations after partial nucleotomy and during axial compression by evaluating changes in internal AF deformation at reference loads (50 N) and physiological compressive loads (∼10% strain). One particular advantage of this methodology is that the full 3D disc deformation state, inclusive of both in-plane and out-of-plane deformations, can be quantified through the use of a high-resolution volumetric MR scan sequence and advanced image registration. Intact grade II L3-L4 cadaveric human discs before and after nucleotomy were subjected to identical mechanical testing and imaging protocols. Internal disc deformation fields were calculated by registering MR images captured in each loading state (reference and compressed) and each condition (intact and nucleotomy). Comparisons were drawn between the resulting three deformation states (intact at compressed load, nucleotomy at reference load, nucleotomy at compressed load) with regard to the magnitude of internal strain and direction of internal displacements. Under compressed load, internal AF axial strains averaged -18.5% when intact and -22.5% after nucleotomy. Deformation orientations were significantly altered by nucleotomy and load magnitude. For example, deformations of intact discs oriented in-plane, whereas deformations after nucleotomy oriented axially. For intact discs, in-plane components of displacements under compressive loads oriented radially outward and circumferentially. After nucleotomy, in-plane displacements were oriented radially inward under reference load and were not significantly different from the intact state at compressed loads. Re-establishment of outward displacements after nucleotomy indicates increased axial loading restores the characteristics of internal pressurization. Results may have implications for the recurrence of pain, design of novel therapeutics, or progression of disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy A Claeson
- Mem. ASMEBiomedical Engineering,University of Delaware,160 Colburn Lab,150 Academy Street,Newark, DE 19716e-mail:
| | - Edward J Vresilovic
- Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation,Pennsylvania State University,EC089 500 University Drive,Hershey, PA 17033e-mail:
| | - Brent L Showalter
- Bioengineering,University of Pennsylvania,242 Stemmler Hall,36th Street & Hamilton Walk,Philadelphia, PA 19104e-mail:
| | - Alexander C Wright
- Radiology,University of Pennsylvania,1st Floor Silverstein Pavilion,3400 Spruce Street,Philadelphia, PA 19104e-mail:
| | - James C Gee
- Radiology,University of Pennsylvania,6th Floor Richards,3700 Hamilton Walk,Philadelphia, PA 19104e-mail:
| | - Neil R Malhotra
- Neurosurgery,University of Pennsylvania,3rd Floor Silverstein Pavilion,3400 Spruce Street,Philadelphia, PA 19104e-mail:
| | - Dawn M Elliott
- Mem. ASMEBiomedical Engineering,University of Delaware,160 Colburn Lab,150 Academy Street,Newark, DE 19716e-mail:
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Senck S, Trieb K, Kastner J, Hofstaetter SG, Lugmayr H, Windisch G. Visualization of intervertebral disc degeneration in a cadaveric human lumbar spine using microcomputed tomography. J Anat 2019; 236:243-251. [PMID: 31670389 PMCID: PMC6956433 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Gross features of disc degeneration (DD) that are associated with back pain include tears in the anulus fibrosus, structural changes of the endplates, and a collapse of the anulus. The aim of this study is the detailed visualization and microstructural characterization of DD using microcomputed tomography (μCT) and a dedicated image post‐processing pipeline. In detail, we investigate a cadaveric spine that shows both types of DD between L1 and L2 and between L2 and L3, respectively. The lumbar spine was obtained from a male donor aged 74 years. The complete specimen was scanned using μCT with an isometric voxel size of 93 μm. Subsequently, regions of interest (ROI) were prepared featuring each complete intervertebral disc including the adjacent endplates. ROIs were then additionally scanned with a voxel size of 35 μm and by means of magnetic resonance imaging. The collapsed endplate of the superior L2 showed explicit signs of an endplate‐driven degeneration, including bony endplate failures. In contrast, the intervertebral disc between L2 and L3 showed indications of an annulus‐driven DD including severe disc height loss and concentric tears. Using μCT we were able to visualize and quantify bone and cartilage features in DD. We showed that in both cases a suite of structural changes accompanies cartilage degeneration, including microstructural bony adaptions to counteract changes in the biomechanical loading regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha Senck
- University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Wels, Austria
| | - Klemens Trieb
- University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Wels, Austria
| | - Johann Kastner
- University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Wels, Austria
| | | | - Herbert Lugmayr
- Institut für Radiologie I, Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen, Wels, Austria
| | - Gunther Windisch
- Institut für makroskopische und klinische Anatomie Graz, Medizinische Universität Graz, Graz, Austria
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Zehra U, Noel-Barker N, Marshall J, Adams MA, Dolan P. Associations Between Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Grading Schemes and Measures of Disc Function. J Orthop Res 2019; 37:1946-1955. [PMID: 31042314 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Disc degeneration is a major cause of spinal dysfunction and pain, but grading schemes concentrate on tissue changes rather than altered function. The aim of this study was to compare disc degeneration grading systems with each other, and with biomechanical measures of disc function. Sixty-six motion segments (T8-9 to L5-S1) were dissected from cadavers aged 48-98 years. Disc function was assessed by measuring nucleus pressure (IDP) and maximum stresses in the annulus under 1 kN of compression. Detailed "scores" of disc degeneration were based on independent radiographic, macroscopic, and microscopic evaluations. For each evaluation, scores were used to assign a degeneration "grade" (I-IV), and functional measures were then correlated with degeneration scores and grades. Results showed that all measures were reliable (intraclass correlation coefficients: 0.82-0.99). Macroscopic and microscopic assessments were highly correlated with each other (r: 0.57-0.89, p < 0.001) but only weakly correlated with radiographic features. The overall macroscopic and microscopic scores of degeneration increased significantly with age and at lower spinal levels, although the influence of age was less marked in the case of the microscopic scores. IDP decreased with age and at lower spinal levels, but annulus stresses were more variable. Importantly, IDP and annulus stresses decreased consistently with all measures of disc degeneration, and these associations remained strong after controlling for age, gender, and spinal level. We conclude that radiographic and tissue-based assessments of disc degeneration are consistent with each other, and are more closely related to mechanical (dys)function than to age or spinal level. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1946-1955, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uruj Zehra
- Department of Anatomy, University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Natasha Noel-Barker
- Centre for Applied Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street Bristol, Bristol, BS2 8EJ, UK
| | - John Marshall
- Centre for Applied Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street Bristol, Bristol, BS2 8EJ, UK
| | - Michael A Adams
- Centre for Applied Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street Bristol, Bristol, BS2 8EJ, UK
| | - Patricia Dolan
- Centre for Applied Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street Bristol, Bristol, BS2 8EJ, UK
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Characterization of the microstructure of the intervertebral disc in patients with chronic low back pain by diffusion kurtosis imaging. 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 2019; 28:2517-2525. [PMID: 31410620 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-019-06095-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Multivariate analysis of T2-weighted signal, diffusion ADC, and DKI parameters and tractography were used to differentiate chronic non-specific low back pain (CLBP) patients and asymptomatic controls (AC). METHODS A total of 30 patients with CLBP and 23 AC underwent diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) of lumbar spine with a 3T MRI scanner to get the ADC values and seven parameters of DKI in the nucleus pulposus (NP) of the intervertebral disc. The tractography and the tract-related parameters as other parameters were also generated to indicate the intactness of annulus fibrosus (AF). T2-grades of the discs were also quantified based on an eight-grade degeneration grading system. ADC and T2-grades were compared with DKI parameters for the differentiation of CLBP and AC groups. RESULTS There was no difference in the T2 grades, ADC value, and multiple parameters in DKI of NP between CLBP and AC groups (P > 0.05). The average FA values in NP in AC group were found significantly higher than in the CLBP group (P < 0.05). The scores for the intactness of AF of the intervertebral discs were significantly different in CLBP and AC groups, with 90% of sensitivity and 70% specificity (P < 0.05). Additionally, there were significantly differences in the length and volume values of the AF in CLBP and AC groups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION DKI is a good noninvasive method, and it might help to differentiate CLBP from AC. Particularly, the continuation of DKI tractography reflects the presence of annulus fibrosus fissures, an important character in the generation of the low back pain. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
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Richards J, Tang S, Gunsch G, Sul P, Wiet M, Flanigan DC, Khan SN, Moore S, Walter B, Purmessur D. Mast Cell/Proteinase Activated Receptor 2 (PAR2) Mediated Interactions in the Pathogenesis of Discogenic Back Pain. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:294. [PMID: 31333416 PMCID: PMC6625229 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are present in the painful degenerate human intervertebral disc (IVD) and are associated with disease pathogenesis. MCs release granules containing enzymatic and inflammatory factors in response to stimulants or allergens. The serine protease, tryptase, is unique to MCs and its activation of the G-protein coupled receptor, Protease Activated Receptor 2 (PAR2), induces inflammation and degradation in osteoarthritic cartilage. Our previously published work has demonstrated increased levels of MC marker tryptase in IVD samples from discogenic back pain patients compared to healthy control IVD samples including expression of chemotactic agents that may facilitate MC migration into the IVD. To further elucidate MCs’ role in the IVD and mechanisms underlying its effects, we investigated whether (1) human IVD cells can promote MC migration, (2) MC tryptase can mediate up-regulation of inflammatory/catabolic process in human IVD cells and tissue, and (3) the potential of PAR2 antagonist to function as a therapeutic drug in in vitro human and ex vivo bovine pilot models of disease. MC migration was quantitatively assessed using conditioned media from primary human IVD cells and MC migration examined through Matrigel. Exposure to soluble IVD factors significantly enhanced MC migration, suggesting IVD cells can recruit MCs. We also demonstrated significant upregulation of MC chemokine SCF and angiogenic factor VEGFA gene expression in human IVD cells in vitro in response to recombinant human tryptase, suggesting tryptase can enhance recruitment of MCs and promotion of angiogenesis into the usually avascular IVD. Furthermore, tryptase can degrade proteoglycans in IVD tissue as demonstrated by significant increases in glycosaminoglycans released into surrounding media. This can create a catabolic microenvironment compromising structural integrity and facilitating vascular migration usually inhibited by the anti-angiogenic IVD matrix. Finally, as a “proof of concept” study, we examined the therapeutic potential of PAR2 antagonist (PAR2A) on human IVD cells and bovine organ culture IVD model. While preliminary data shows promise and points toward structural restoration of the bovine IVD including down-regulation of VEGFA, effects of PAR2 antagonist on human IVD cells differ between gender and donors suggesting that further validation is required with larger cohorts of human specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Richards
- College of Arts and Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Shirley Tang
- College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Gilian Gunsch
- College of Arts and Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Pavel Sul
- College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Matthew Wiet
- College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - David C Flanigan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Wexner Medical Center, 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
| | - Sarah Moore
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Benjamin Walter
- College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Orthopaedics, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Devina Purmessur
- College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Orthopaedics, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Zhang H, He B. SDF1/CXCR4 axis plays a role in angiogenesis during the degeneration of intervertebral discs. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:1203-1211. [PMID: 31173219 PMCID: PMC6625428 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a ubiquitous disease affecting quality of life. The ingrowth of new blood vessels is an important pathological feature of LBP, but its underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. The present study aimed to investigate the influence and relative mechanism of stromal cell derived factor 1 (SDF1) on the angiogenesis of degenerated intervertebral discs. The expression of SDF1 in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) was upregulated and downregulated by virus transfection, and the NPCs were allocated to either the downregulation (Down), degeneration (D) or upregulation (Up) group according to the expression of SDF1. The different groups of NPCs or NPC conditioned media were co-cultured with vascular endothelial cells (VECs) under different conditions. A Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, a Transwell migration assay and a tube formation assay were conducted to evaluate the influence on angiogenesis. The results showed that SDF1 was significantly up- and downregulated in the Up and Down groups, respectively. Each group of NPCs or their conditioned medium was co-cultured with VECs; the CCK-8, Transwell migration and tube formation assays showed that cell viability, chemotactic migration and the tube formation ability of VECs increased with the rise in SDF1. The aforementioned results were significantly different between each group. After adding the CXCR4 inhibitor, AMD3100, the viability, migration and tube formation of VECs were suppressed in the D and Up groups, and there was a significant difference compared with the prior to the addition of the inhibitor, while there was a declining tendency in the Down group and no significant difference following addition of the inhibitor. The results demonstrated that SDF1 is expressed in human NPCs, and the SDF1/CXCR4 axis can influence the viability, migration and tube formation of VECs and may play an important role in the angiogenesis of human degenerated discs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxiang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, P.R. China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, P.R. China
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