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McDonnell EE, Ní Néill T, Wilson N, Darwish SL, Butler JS, Buckley CT. In silico modeling the potential clinical effect of growth factor treatment on the metabolism of human nucleus pulposus cells. JOR Spine 2024; 7:e1352. [PMID: 39092165 PMCID: PMC11291302 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background While growth factors have the potential to halt degeneration and decrease inflammation in animal models, the literature investigating the effect of dosage on human cells is lacking. Moreover, despite the completion of clinical trials using growth differentiation factor-5 (GDF-5), no results have been publicly released. Aims The overall objective was to quantitatively assess the effect of three clinically relevant concentrations of GDF-5 (0.25, 1, and 2 mg) as a therapeutic for disc regeneration. Materials and methods Firstly, this work experimentally determined the effects of GDF-5 concentration on the metabolic and matrix synthesis rates of human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. Secondly, in silico modeling was employed to predict the subsequent regenerative effect of different GDF-5 treatments (± cells). Results This study suggests a trend of increased matrix synthesis with 0.25 and 1 mg of GDF-5. However, 2 mg of GDF-5 significantly upregulates oxygen consumption. Despite this, in silico models highlight the potential of growth factors in promoting matrix synthesis compared to cell-only treatments, without significantly perturbing the nutrient microenvironment. Discussion This work elucidates the potential of GDF-5 on human NP cells. Although the results did not reveal statistical differences across all doses, the variability and response among donors is an interesting finding. It highlights the complexity of human response to biological treatments and reinforces the need for further human research and personalized approaches. Furthermore, this study raises a crucial question about whether these potential biologics are more regenerative in nature or better suited as prophylactic therapies for younger patient groups. Conclusion Biological agents exhibit unique characteristics and features, demanding tailored development strategies and individualized assessments rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Therefore, the journey to realizing the full potential of biological therapies is long and costly. Nonetheless, it holds the promise of revolutionizing spinal healthcare and improving the quality of life for patients suffering from discogenic back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E. McDonnell
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Tara Ní Néill
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Niamh Wilson
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Stacey L. Darwish
- National Spinal Injuries UnitMater Misericordiae University HospitalDublinIreland
- School of MedicineUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
- Department of Trauma and OrthopaedicsNational Orthopaedic Hospital, CappaghDublinIreland
- Department of OrthopaedicsSt Vincent's University HospitalDublinIreland
| | - Joseph S. Butler
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- National Spinal Injuries UnitMater Misericordiae University HospitalDublinIreland
- School of MedicineUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Conor T. Buckley
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Tissue Engineering Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Regenerative MedicineRoyal College of Surgeons in IrelandDublinIreland
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Chen X, Zhang A, Zhao K, Gao H, Shi P, Chen Y, Cheng Z, Zhou W, Zhang Y. The role of oxidative stress in intervertebral disc degeneration: Mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 98:102323. [PMID: 38734147 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is one of the main driving mechanisms of intervertebral disc degeneration(IDD). Oxidative stress has been associated with inflammation in the intervertebral disc, cellular senescence, autophagy, and epigenetics of intervertebral disc cells. It and the above pathological mechanisms are closely linked through the common hub reactive oxygen species(ROS), and promote each other in the process of disc degeneration and promote the development of the disease. This reveals the important role of oxidative stress in the process of IDD, and the importance and great potential of IDD therapy targeting oxidative stress. The efficacy of traditional therapy is unstable or cannot be maintained. In recent years, due to the rise of materials science, many bioactive functional materials have been applied in the treatment of IDD, and through the combination with traditional drugs, satisfactory efficacy has been achieved. At present, the research review of antioxidant bioactive materials in the treatment of IDD is not complete. Based on the existing studies, the mechanism of oxidative stress in IDD and the common antioxidant therapy were summarized in this paper, and the strategies based on emerging bioactive materials were reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianglong Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Anran Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Kangcheng Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Haiyang Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Pengzhi Shi
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yuhang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Zhangrong Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Wenjuan Zhou
- Department of Operating Room, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - Yukun Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
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3
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Padrona M, Maroquenne M, El-Hafci H, Rossiaud L, Petite H, Potier E. Glucose depletion decreases cell viability without triggering degenerative changes in a physiological nucleus pulposus explant model. J Orthop Res 2024; 42:1111-1121. [PMID: 37975418 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Although the etiology of intervertebral disc degeneration is still unresolved, the nutrient paucity resulting from its avascular nature is suspected of triggering degenerative processes in its core: the nucleus pulposus (NP). While severe hypoxia has no significant effects on NP cells, the impact of glucose depletion, such as found in degenerated discs (0.2-1 mM), is still uncertain. Using a pertinent ex-vivo model representative of the unique disc microenvironment, the present study aimed, therefore, at determining the effects of "degenerated" (0.3 mM) glucose levels on bovine NP explant homeostasis. The effects of glucose depletion were evaluated on NP cell viability, apoptosis, phenotype, metabolism, senescence, extracellular matrix anabolism and catabolism, and inflammatory mediator production using fluorescent staining, RT-qPCR, (immuno)histology, ELISA, biochemical, and enzymatic assays. Compared to the "healthy" (2 mM) glucose condition, exposure to the degenerated glucose condition led to a rapid and extensive decrease in NP cell viability associated with increased apoptosis. Although the aggrecan and collagen-II gene expression was also downregulated, NP cell phenotype, and senescence, matrix catabolism, and inflammatory mediator production were not, or only slightly, affected by glucose depletion. The present study provided evidence for glucose depletion as an essential player in NP cell viability but also suggested that other microenvironment factor(s) may be involved in triggering the typical shift of NP cell phenotype observed during disc degeneration. The present study contributes new information for better understanding disc degeneration at the cellular-molecular levels and thus helps to develop relevant therapeutical strategies to counteract it.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hanane El-Hafci
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, INSERM, ENVA, B3OA, Paris, France
| | | | - Hervé Petite
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, INSERM, ENVA, B3OA, Paris, France
| | - Esther Potier
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, INSERM, ENVA, B3OA, Paris, France
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4
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Naresh-Babu J, Gajendra, Prajwal GS. ISSLS prize in clinical/bioengineering science 2024: How standing and supine positions influence nutrient transport in human lumbar discs?-A serial post-contrast MRI study evaluating interplay between convection and diffusion. 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 2024; 33:1728-1736. [PMID: 38662214 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-024-08243-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The intervertebral disc being avascular depends on diffusion and load-based convection for essential nutrient supply and waste removal. There are no reliable methods to simultaneously investigate them in humans under natural loads. For the first time, present study aims to investigate this by strategically employing positional MRI and post-contrast studies in three physiological positions: supine, standing and post-standing recovery. METHODS A total of 100 healthy intervertebral discs from 20 volunteers were subjected to a serial post-contrast MR study after injecting 0.3 mmol/kg gadodiamide and T1-weighted MR images were obtained at 0, 2, 6, 12 and 24 h. At each time interval, images were obtained in three positions, i.e. supine, standing and post-standing recovery supine. The signal intensity values at endplate zone and nucleus pulposus were measured. Enhancement percentages were calculated and analysed comparing three positions. RESULTS During unloaded supine position, there was slow gradual increase in enhancement reaching peak at 6 h. When the subjects assumed standing position, there was immediate loss of enhancement at nucleus pulposus which resulted in reciprocal increase in enhancement at endplate zone (washout phenomenon). Interestingly, when subjects assumed the post-standing recovery position, the nucleus pulposus regained the enhancement and endplate zone showed reciprocal loss (pumping-in phenomenon). CONCLUSIONS For the first time, present study documented acute effects of physiological loading and unloading on nutrition of human discs in vivo. While during rest, solutes diffused gradually into disc, the diurnal short loading and unloading redistribute small solutes by convection. Standing caused rapid solute depletion but promptly regained by assuming resting supine position.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Naresh-Babu
- Director and Chief Spine Surgeon, Mallika Spine Centre, Guntur, AP, India.
| | - Gajendra
- Fellow in Spine Surgery, Mallika Spine Centre, Guntur, AP, India
| | - G S Prajwal
- Fellow in Spine Surgery, Mallika Spine Centre, Guntur, AP, India
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5
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Tamagawa S, Sakai D, Nojiri H, Nakamura Y, Warita T, Matsushita E, Schol J, Soma H, Ogasawara S, Munesada D, Koike M, Shimizu T, Sato M, Ishijima M, Watanabe M. SOD2 orchestrates redox homeostasis in intervertebral discs: A novel insight into oxidative stress-mediated degeneration and therapeutic potential. Redox Biol 2024; 71:103091. [PMID: 38412803 PMCID: PMC10907854 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a pervasive global health concern, primarily associated with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Although oxidative stress has been shown to contribute to IVD degeneration, the underlying mechanisms remain undetermined. This study aimed to unravel the role of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) in IVD pathogenesis and target oxidative stress to limit IVD degeneration. SOD2 demonstrated a dynamic regulation in surgically excised human IVD tissues, with initial upregulation in moderate degeneration and downregulation in severely degenerated IVDs. Through a comprehensive set of in vitro and in vivo experiments, we found a suggestive association between excessive mitochondrial superoxide, cellular senescence, and matrix degradation in human and mouse IVD cells. We confirmed that aging and mechanical stress, established triggers for IVD degeneration, escalated mitochondrial superoxide levels in mouse models. Critically, chondrocyte-specific Sod2 deficiency accelerated age-related and mechanical stress-induced disc degeneration in mice, and could be attenuated by β-nicotinamide mononucleotide treatment. These revelations underscore the central role of SOD2 in IVD redox balance and unveil potential therapeutic avenues, making SOD2 and mitochondrial superoxide promising targets for effective LBP interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Tamagawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Sakai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan.
| | - Hidetoshi Nojiri
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Nakamura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Takayuki Warita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Erika Matsushita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Jordy Schol
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Hazuki Soma
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Shota Ogasawara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Daiki Munesada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Masato Koike
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiko Shimizu
- Aging Stress Response Research Project Team, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Masato Sato
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Muneaki Ishijima
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiko Watanabe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
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6
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Marcus JL, Westerhaus BD, Chernicki B, Giuffrida A. Basivertebral nerve ablation with concurrent lumbar laminotomy. BMJ Case Rep 2024; 17:e259695. [PMID: 38575334 PMCID: PMC11002411 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2024-259695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Lumbar radiculopathy due to impingement of nerve roots from facet hypertrophy and/or disc herniation can often coincide with vertebrogenic low back pain. This is demonstrated on MRI with foraminal stenosis and Modic changes. We examine the potential of using a combination of basivertebral nerve ablation (BVNA) and lumbar laminotomy as an alternative to traditional spinal fusion in specific patient populations. This unique combination of surgical techniques has not been previously reported in the medical literature. We report a man in his late 30s with chronic low back pain and lumbar radiculopathy, treated with BVNA and concurrent laminotomy. The patient reported progressive improvements in his mobility and pain over the next 2 years. We discuss the advantages of using this technique for lumbar radiculopathy and Modic changes compared with conventional surgical modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason L Marcus
- Nova Southeastern University Dr Kiran C Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Clearwater, Florida, USA
- Cantor Spince Center, Interventional Spine, Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Benjamin D Westerhaus
- Cantor Spince Center, Interventional Spine, Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Brendan Chernicki
- Nova Southeastern University Dr Kiran C Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Clearwater, Florida, USA
| | - Anthony Giuffrida
- Cantor Spince Center, Interventional Spine, Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
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Tao Y, Yu X, Li X, Xu Y, Wang H, Zhang L, Lin R, Wang Y, Fan P. M6A methylation-regulated autophagy may be a new therapeutic target for intervertebral disc degeneration. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:389-403. [PMID: 38317355 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12135] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Degeneration of intervertebral discs is considered one of the most important causes of low back pain and disability. The intervertebral disc (IVD) is characterized by its susceptibility to various stressors that accelerate the senescence and apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells, resulting in the loss of these cells and dysfunction of the intervertebral disc. Therefore, how to reduce the loss of nucleus pulposus cells under stress environment is the main problem in treating intervertebral disc degeneration. Autophagy is a kind of programmed cell death, which can provide energy by recycling substances in cells. It is considered to be an effective method to reduce the senescence and apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells under stress. However, further research is needed on the mechanisms by which autophagy of nucleus pulposus cells is regulated under stress environments. M6A methylation, as the most extensive RNA modification in eukaryotic cells, participates in various cellular biological functions and is believed to be related to the regulation of autophagy under stress environments, may play a significant role in nucleus pulposus responding to stress. This article first summarizes the effects of various stressors on the death and autophagy of nucleus pulposus cells. Then, it summarizes the regulatory mechanism of m6A methylation on autophagy-related genes under stress and the role of these autophagy genes in nucleus pulposus cells. Finally, it proposes that the methylation modification of autophagy-related genes regulated by m6A may become a new treatment approach for intervertebral disc degeneration, providing new insights and ideas for the clinical treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuao Tao
- Department of Spine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaolong Li
- Department of Spine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuzhu Xu
- Department of Spine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Spine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lele Zhang
- Department of Spine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rubing Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuntao Wang
- Department of Spine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Pan Fan
- Department of Spine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Kritschil R, Li V, Wang D, Dong Q, Silwal P, Finkel T, Lee J, Sowa G, Vo N. Impact of autophagy inhibition on intervertebral disc cells and extracellular matrix. JOR Spine 2024; 7:e1286. [PMID: 38234974 PMCID: PMC10792703 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a leading contributor to low back pain (LBP). Autophagy, strongly activated by hypoxia and nutrient starvation, is a vital intracellular quality control process that removes damaged proteins and organelles to recycle them for cellular biosynthesis and energy production. While well-established as a major driver of many age-related diseases, autophagy dysregulation or deficiency has yet been confirmed to cause IDD. Methods In vitro, rat nucleus pulposus (NP) cells treated with bafilomycin A1 to inhibit autophagy were assessed for glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content, proteoglycan synthesis, and cell viability. In vivo, a transgenic strain (Col2a1-Cre; Atg7 fl/fl) mice were successfully generated to inhibit autophagy primarily in NP tissues. Col2a1-Cre; Atg7 fl/fl mouse intervertebral discs (IVDs) were evaluated for biomarkers for apoptosis and cellular senescence, aggrecan content, and histological changes up to 12 months of age. Results Here, we demonstrated inhibition of autophagy by bafilomycin produced IDD features in the rat NP cells, including increased apoptosis and cellular senescence (p21 CIP1) and decreased expression of disc matrix genes Col2a1 and Acan. H&E histologic staining showed significant but modest degenerative changes in NP tissue of Col2a1-Cre; Atg7 fl/fl mice compared to controls at 6 and 12 months of age. Intriguingly, 12-month-old Col2a1-Cre; Atg7 fl/fl mice did not display increased loss of NP proteoglycan. Moreover, markers of apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3, TUNEL), and cellular senescence (p53, p16 INK4a , IL-1β, TNF-α) were not affected in 12-month-old Col2a1-Cre; Atg7 fl/fl mice compared to controls. However, p21 CIP1and Mmp13 gene expression were upregulated in NP tissue of 12-month-old Col2a1-Cre; Atg7 fl/fl mice compared to controls, suggesting p21 CIP1-mediated cellular senescence resulted from NP-targeted Atg7 knockout might contribute to the observed histological changes. Conclusion The absence of overt IDD features from disrupting Atg7-mediated macroautophagy in NP tissue implicates other compensatory mechanisms, highlighting additional research needed to elucidate the complex biology of autophagy in regulating age-dependent IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Kritschil
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Vivian Li
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Drexel School of MedicineDrexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Qing Dong
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Prashanta Silwal
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Toren Finkel
- Aging InstituteUniversity of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Joon Lee
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Gwendolyn Sowa
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Nam Vo
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
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9
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Zhou M, Theologis AA, O’Connell GD. Understanding the etiopathogenesis of lumbar intervertebral disc herniation: From clinical evidence to basic scientific research. JOR Spine 2024; 7:e1289. [PMID: 38222810 PMCID: PMC10782075 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Lumbar intervertebral disc herniation, as a leading cause of low back pain, productivity loss, and disability, is a common musculoskeletal disorder that results in significant socioeconomic burdens. Despite extensive clinical and basic scientific research efforts, herniation etiopathogenesis, particularly its initiation and progression, is not well understood. Understanding herniation etiopathogenesis is essential for developing effective preventive measures and therapeutic interventions. Thus, this review seeks to provide a thorough overview of the advances in herniation-oriented research, with a discussion on ongoing challenges and potential future directions for clinical, translational, and basic scientific investigations to facilitate innovative interdisciplinary research aimed at understanding herniation etiopathogenesis. Specifically, risk factors for herniation are identified and summarized, including familial predisposition, obesity, diabetes mellitus, smoking tobacco, selected cardiovascular diseases, disc degeneration, and occupational risks. Basic scientific experimental and computational research that aims to understand the link between excessive mechanical load, catabolic tissue remodeling due to inflammation or insufficient nutrient supply, and herniation, are also reviewed. Potential future directions to address the current challenges in herniation-oriented research are explored by combining known progressive development in existing research techniques with ongoing technological advances. More research on the relationship between occupational risk factors and herniation, as well as the relationship between degeneration and herniation, is needed to develop preventive measures for working-age individuals. Notably, researchers should explore using or modifying existing degeneration animal models to study herniation etiopathogenesis, as such models may allow for a better understanding of how to prevent mild-to-moderately degenerated discs from herniating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhao Zhou
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)BerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Alekos A. Theologis
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of California, San Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Grace D. O’Connell
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)BerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of California, San Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
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10
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Zhang Y, Liu L, Qi Y, Lou J, Chen Y, Liu C, Li H, Chang X, Hu Z, Li Y, Zhang Y, Feng C, Zhou Y, Zhai Y, Li C. Lactic acid promotes nucleus pulposus cell senescence and corresponding intervertebral disc degeneration via interacting with Akt. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:24. [PMID: 38212432 PMCID: PMC11071984 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05094-y] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The accumulation of metabolites in the intervertebral disc is considered an important cause of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Lactic acid, which is a metabolite that is produced by cellular anaerobic glycolysis, has been proven to be closely associated with IVDD. However, little is known about the role of lactic acid in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) senescence and oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of lactic acid on NPCs senescence and oxidative stress as well as the underlying mechanism. A puncture-induced disc degeneration (PIDD) model was established in rats. Metabolomics analysis revealed that lactic acid levels were significantly increased in degenerated intervertebral discs. Elimination of excessive lactic acid using a lactate oxidase (LOx)-overexpressing lentivirus alleviated the progression of IVDD. In vitro experiments showed that high concentrations of lactic acid could induce senescence and oxidative stress in NPCs. High-throughput RNA sequencing results and bioinformatic analysis demonstrated that the induction of NPCs senescence and oxidative stress by lactic acid may be related to the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Further study verified that high concentrations of lactic acid could induce NPCs senescence and oxidative stress by interacting with Akt and regulating its downstream Akt/p21/p27/cyclin D1 and Akt/Nrf2/HO-1 pathways. Utilizing molecular docking, site-directed mutation and microscale thermophoresis assays, we found that lactic acid could regulate Akt kinase activity by binding to the Lys39 and Leu52 residues in the PH domain of Akt. These results highlight the involvement of lactic acid in NPCs senescence and oxidative stress, and lactic acid may become a novel potential therapeutic target for the treatment of IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyao Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Libangxi Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of PLA, Wuhan, 430000, China
| | - Yuhan Qi
- Institute of Basic Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Jinhui Lou
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yuxuan Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Haiyin Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xian Chang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Zhilei Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yueyang Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chencheng Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yu Zhai
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Changqing Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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Liu Y, Xue M, Han Y, Li Y, Xiao B, Wang W, Yu J, Ye X. Exosomes from M2c macrophages alleviate intervertebral disc degeneration by promoting synthesis of the extracellular matrix via MiR-124/CILP/TGF-β. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10500. [PMID: 38023721 PMCID: PMC10658595 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Immuno-inflammation is highly associated with anabolic and catabolic dysregulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the nucleus pulposus (NP), which dramatically propels intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). With the characteristics of tissue remodeling and regeneration, M2c macrophages have attracted great attention in research on immune modulation that rebuilds degenerated tissues. Therefore, we first demonstrated the facilitating effects of M2c macrophages on ECM anabolism of the NP in vitro. We subsequently found that exosomes from M2c macrophages (M2c-Exoss) mediated their metabolic rebalancing effects on the ECM. To determine whether M2c-Exoss served as positive agents protecting the ECM in IVDD, we constructed an M2c-Exos-loaded hyaluronic acid hydrogel (M2c-Exos@HA hydrogel) and implanted it into the degenerated caudal disc of rats. The results of MRI and histological staining indicated that the M2c-Exos@HA hydrogel alleviated IVDD in vivo in the long term. To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism, we performed 4D label-free proteomics to screen dysregulated proteins in NPs treated with M2c-Exoss. Cartilage intermediate layer protein (CILP) was the key protein responsible for the rebalancing effects of M2c-Exoss on ECM metabolism in the NP. With prediction and verification using luciferase assays and rescue experiments, miR-124-3p was identified as the upstream regulator in M2c-Exoss that regulated CILP and consequently enhanced the activity of the TGF-β/smad3 pathway. In conclusion, we demonstrated ameliorating effects of M2c-Exoss on the imbalance of ECM metabolism in IVDD via the miR-124/CILP/TGF-β regulatory axis, which provides a promising theoretical basis for the application of M2c macrophages and their exosomes in the treatment of IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Department of OrthopaedicsSecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
- Department of OrthopedicsTongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Mintao Xue
- Department of OrthopaedicsSecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yaguang Han
- Department of OrthopaedicsSecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yucai Li
- Department of OrthopedicsTongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Bing Xiao
- Department of OrthopaedicsSecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Weiheng Wang
- Department of OrthopaedicsSecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Jiangming Yu
- Department of OrthopedicsTongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojian Ye
- Department of OrthopedicsTongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
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12
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McDonnell EE, Wilson N, Barcellona MN, Ní Néill T, Bagnall J, Brama PAJ, Cunniffe GM, Darwish SL, Butler JS, Buckley CT. Preclinical to clinical translation for intervertebral disc repair: Effects of species-specific scale, metabolism, and matrix synthesis rates on cell-based regeneration. JOR Spine 2023; 6:e1279. [PMID: 37780829 PMCID: PMC10540833 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A significant hurdle for potential cell-based therapies is the subsequent survival and regenerative capacity of implanted cells. While many exciting developments have demonstrated promise preclinically, cell-based therapies for intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration fail to translate equivalent clinical efficacy. Aims This work aims to ascertain the clinical relevance of both a small and large animal model by experimentally investigating and comparing these animal models to human from the perspective of anatomical scale and their cellular metabolic and regenerative potential. Materials and Methods First, this work experimentally investigated species-specific geometrical scale, native cell density, nutrient metabolism, and matrix synthesis rates for rat, goat, and human disc cells in a 3D microspheroid configuration. Second, these parameters were employed in silico to elucidate species-specific nutrient microenvironments and predict differences in temporal regeneration between animal models. Results This work presents in silico models which correlate favorably to preclinical literature in terms of the capabilities of animal regeneration and predict that compromised nutrition is not a significant challenge in small animal discs. On the contrary, it highlights a very fine clinical balance between an adequate cell dose for sufficient repair, through de novo matrix deposition, without exacerbating the human microenvironmental niche. Discussion Overall, this work aims to provide a path towards understanding the effect of cell injection number on the nutrient microenvironment and the "time to regeneration" between preclinical animal models and the large human IVD. While these findings help to explain failed translation of promising preclinical data and the limited results emerging from clinical trials at present, they also enable the research field and clinicians to manage expectations on cell-based regeneration. Conclusion Ultimately, this work provides a platform to inform the design of clinical trials, and as computing power and software capabilities increase in the future, it is conceivable that generation of patient-specific models could be used for patient assessment, as well as pre- and intraoperative planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E. McDonnell
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Niamh Wilson
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Marcos N. Barcellona
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Tara Ní Néill
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Jessica Bagnall
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Pieter A. J. Brama
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Gráinne M. Cunniffe
- National Spinal Injuries UnitMater Misericordiae University HospitalDublinIreland
- School of MedicineUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Stacey L. Darwish
- National Spinal Injuries UnitMater Misericordiae University HospitalDublinIreland
- School of MedicineUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
- National Orthopaedic HospitalDublinIreland
- St Vincent's University HospitalDublinIreland
| | - Joseph S. Butler
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- National Spinal Injuries UnitMater Misericordiae University HospitalDublinIreland
- School of MedicineUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Conor T. Buckley
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland & Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
- Tissue Engineering Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Regenerative MedicineRoyal College of Surgeons in IrelandDublinIreland
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13
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Sood A, Mishra GV, Suryadevara M, Parihar P, Khandelwal S, Manuja N, Saboo K, Shelar SS, Ahuja A, Batra N. Role of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient in Evaluating Degeneration of the Intervertebral Disc: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e43340. [PMID: 37700953 PMCID: PMC10493165 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Degeneration of the lumbar intervertebral disc is the most common cause of lower back pain. It is directly related to daily activities, mechanical stress, and other biological factors. We use imaging modalities to assess the degree of disc degeneration, out of which magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most popular non-invasive modality. It is believed that early changes in disc degeneration are due to the biochemical events in the disc and can be evaluated by sequences in MRI involving the diffusion of water molecules. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) is one such sequence that captures the signals based on the diffusion of water molecules. Ten articles were chosen from PubMed and Google Scholar using the MeSH terms 'lumbar spine degeneration' and 'apparent diffusion coefficient'. This review article has summarized various studies intending to gain a better understanding of the biochemical events leading to the development of disc degeneration. This study has also gathered the role of various sequences in MRI that can quantitatively assess disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshul Sood
- Radiodiagnosis, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Gaurav V Mishra
- Radiodiagnosis, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Manasa Suryadevara
- Radiodiagnosis, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Pratap Parihar
- Radiodiagnosis, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Shreya Khandelwal
- Radiodiagnosis, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Nishtha Manuja
- Internal Medicine, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Keyur Saboo
- Internal Medicine, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Sheetal S Shelar
- Radiodiagnosis, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Abhinav Ahuja
- Internal Medicine, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
| | - Nitish Batra
- Internal Medicine, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, IND
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Dong F, Zhang P, Ma B, Bao G, Kang H. Effects of glucose concentration and oxygen partial pressure on the respiratory metabolism of sheep temporomandibular joint disc cells. Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:387. [PMID: 37456155 PMCID: PMC10347106 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12086] [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: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc degeneration is a common disease characterized by a decrease in metabolic function. The present study aimed to investigate the pathogenesis of TMJ disc degeneration by analyzing the effects of oxygen and glucose concentrations on metabolism in a simulated TMJ disc cell growth environment. Cell samples were divided into 10 groups and cultured in different nutritional environments, including 21 and 2% O2 partial pressures and various glucose concentrations (0, 0.5, 3, 5.5 and 22.5 mmol/l). Cell proliferation, extracellular matrix content, mitochondrial function, and cell metabolism were subsequently analyzed. The results demonstrated that hypoxia and a low glucose concentration inhibited cell growth, and low glucose concentration inhibited extracellular matrix synthesis and adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase expression. Hypoxic conditions also induced a compensatory increase in the number of mitochondria, whereas mitochondrial deformation and swelling were observed in the absence of glucose. According to this study, the primary metabolic pathway of TMJ disc cells is glycolysis. It was concluded that hypoxic conditions and normal glucose concentrations are needed for the growth of TMJ disc cells. Glucose is necessary to ensure cell survival, extracellular matrix synthesis and mitochondrial function. Glucose deficiency may be related to disc degeneration, aging and disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangrui Dong
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Bin Ma
- Key Laboratory of Stomatology of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730030, P.R. China
| | - Guangjie Bao
- Key Laboratory of Stomatology of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730030, P.R. China
| | - Hong Kang
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
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15
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Samanta A, Lufkin T, Kraus P. Intervertebral disc degeneration-Current therapeutic options and challenges. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1156749. [PMID: 37483952 PMCID: PMC10359191 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1156749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is a normal part of aging. Due to the spine's declining function and the development of pain, it may affect one's physical health, mental health, and socioeconomic status. Most of the intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) therapies today focus on the symptoms of low back pain rather than the underlying etiology or mechanical function of the disc. The deteriorated disc is typically not restored by conservative or surgical therapies that largely focus on correcting symptoms and structural abnormalities. To enhance the clinical outcome and the quality of life of a patient, several therapeutic modalities have been created. In this review, we discuss genetic and environmental causes of IVDD and describe promising modern endogenous and exogenous therapeutic approaches including their applicability and relevance to the degeneration process.
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16
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Allais R, Capart A, Da Silva A, Boiron O. Biomechanical consequences of the intervertebral disc centre of rotation kinematics during lateral bending and axial rotation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3172. [PMID: 36823433 PMCID: PMC9950088 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29551-7] [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: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The location of the instantaneous centre of rotation (ICR) of a lumbar unit has a considerable clinical importance as a spinal health estimator. Consequently, many studies have been conducted to measure or estimate the ICR during rotations in the three anatomical planes; however the results reported are widely scattered. Even if some inter-subjects variability is to be expected, such inconsistencies are likely explained by the differences in methods and experiments. Therefore, in this paper we seek to model three behaviours of the ICR during lateral bending and axial rotation based on results published in the literature. In order to assess the metabolic and mechanical sensibility to the assumption made on the ICR kinematics, we used a previously validated three dimensional non-linear poroelastic model of a porcine intervertebral disc to simulate physiological lateral and axial rotations. The impact of the geometry was also briefly investigated by considering a 11[Formula: see text] wedge angle. From our simulations, it appears that the hypothesis made on the ICR location does not significantly affect the critical nutrients concentrations but gives disparate predictions of the intradiscal pressure at the centre of the disc (variation up to 0.7 MPa) and of the displacement fields (variation up to 0.4 mm). On the contrary, the wedge angle does not influence the estimated intradiscal pressure but leads to minimal oxygen concentration decreased up to 33% and increased maximal lactate concentration up to 13%. While we can not settle on which definition of the ICR is more accurate, this work suggests that patient-specific modeling of the ICR is required and brings new insights that can be useful for the development of new tools or the design of surgical material such as total lumbar disc prostheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Allais
- CNRS, Centrale Marseille, IRPHE, Aix Marseille Univ, 13013, Marseille, France.
| | - Antoine Capart
- grid.462364.10000 0000 9151 9019Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, Institut Fresnel, 13013 Marseille, France
| | - Anabela Da Silva
- grid.462364.10000 0000 9151 9019Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, Institut Fresnel, 13013 Marseille, France
| | - Olivier Boiron
- grid.5399.60000 0001 2176 4817CNRS, Centrale Marseille, IRPHE, Aix Marseille Univ, 13013 Marseille, France
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17
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pH-Responsive Delivery of H2 through Ammonia Borane-Loaded Hollow Polydopamine for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Therapy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2023; 2023:7773609. [PMID: 36778204 PMCID: PMC9911255 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7773609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
An imbalance in oxidative and inflammatory regulation is the main contributor to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Hydrogen (H2) therapy is a promising antioxidation and anti-inflammatory approach. However, the key to the treatment is how to maintain the long-term effective H2 concentration in the intervertebral disc (IVD). Therefore, we developed a pH-responsive delivery of H2 through ammonia borane-loaded hollow polydopamine (AB@HPDA) for IDD therapy, which has sufficient capacity to control long-term H2 release in an acid-dependent manner in degenerative IVD. The characterization, toxicity, and pH-responsive H2 release of AB@HPDA was detected in vitro. The metabolization of AB@HPDA in the degenerated IVD was tested by in vivo imaging. The therapeutic effect of AB@HPDA on IDD was tested in vivo by X-ray, MRI, water content of the disc, and histological changes. Nuclear extracellular matrix (ECM) components, oxidative stress, and inflammation were also tested to explore potential therapeutic mechanisms. AB@HPDA has good biocompatibility at concentrations less than 500 μg/mL. The H2 release of AB@HPDA was pH responsive. Therefore, AB@HPDAs can provide efficient hydrogen therapy with controlled H2 release in response to the acidic degenerated IVD microenvironment. The metabolization of AB@HPDA in IVD was slow and lasted up to 11 days. HPDA and AB@HPDA significantly inhibited IDD, as tested by X-ray, MRI, disc water content, and histology (P < 0.05). pH-responsive H2 delivery through AB@HPDAs has the potential to efficiently treat IDD by inhibiting ECM degradation and rebalancing oxidative stress and inflammation in degenerative IVDs.
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18
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Hornung AL, Barajas JN, Rudisill SS, Aboushaala K, Butler A, Park G, Harada G, Leonard S, Roberts A, An HS, Epifanov A, Albert HB, Tkachev A, Samartzis D. Prediction of lumbar disc herniation resorption in symptomatic patients: a prospective, multi-imaging and clinical phenotype study. Spine J 2023; 23:247-260. [PMID: 36243388 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Symptomatic lumbar disc herniations (LDH) are very common. LDH resorption may occur by a "self-healing" process, however this phenomenon remains poorly understood. By most guidelines, if LDH remains symptomatic after 3 months and conservative management fails, surgical intervention may be an option. PURPOSE The following prospective study aimed to identify determinants that may predict early versus late LDH resorption. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Prospective study with patients recruited at a single center. PATIENT SAMPLE Ninety-three consecutive patients diagnosed with acute symptomatic LDH were included in this study (n=23 early resorption and n=67 late resorption groups) with a mean age of 48.7±11.9 years. OUTCOMES MEASURE Baseline assessment of patient demographics (eg, smoking status, height, weight, etc.), herniation characteristics (eg, the initial level of herniation, the direction of herniation, prevalence of multiple herniations, etc.) and MRI phenotypes (eg, Modic changes, end plate abnormalities, disc degeneration, vertebral body dimensions, etc.) were collected for further analysis. Lumbar MRIs were performed approximately every 3 months for 1 year from time of enrollment to assess disc integrity. METHODS All patients were managed similarly. LDH resorption was classified as early (<3 months) or late (>3 months). A prediction model of pretreatment factors was constructed. RESULTS No significant differences were noted between groups at any time-point (p>.05). Patients in the early resorption group experienced greater percent reduction of disc herniation between MRI-0-MRI-1 (p=.043), reduction of herniation size for total study duration (p=.007), and percent resorption per day compared to the late resorption group (p<.001). Based on multivariate modeling, greater L4 posterior vertebral height (coeff:14.58), greater sacral slope (coeff:0.12), and greater herniated volume (coeff:0.013) at baseline were found to be most predictive of early resorption (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS This is the first comprehensive imaging and clinical phenotypic prospective study, to our knowledge, that has identified distinct determinants for early LDH resorption. Early resorption can occur in 24.7% of LDH patients. We developed a prediction model for early resorption which demonstrated great overall performance according to pretreatment measures of herniation size, L4 posterior body height, and sacral slope. A risk profile is proposed which may aid clinical decision-making and managing patient expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander L Hornung
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - J Nicolas Barajas
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Samuel S Rudisill
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Khaled Aboushaala
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Alexander Butler
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Grant Park
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Garrett Harada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Skylar Leonard
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Ashley Roberts
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Howard S An
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Anton Epifanov
- Tkachev and Epifanov Clinic, Novouzenskaya str, 6-B, Volograd, 400120, Russia
| | - Hanne B Albert
- The Modic ClinicJernbanegade 43. sal th 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Alexander Tkachev
- Tkachev and Epifanov Clinic, Novouzenskaya str, 6-B, Volograd, 400120, Russia.
| | - Dino Samartzis
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2(nd) Floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; The International Spine Research and Innovation Initiative, Rush University Medical Center, Orthopaedic Building, 2nd floor, 1611 W. Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Xia Y, Wang H, Yang R, Hou Y, Li Y, Zhu J, Fu C. Biomaterials delivery strategies to repair degenerated intervertebral discs by regulating the inflammatory microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1051606. [PMID: 36756124 PMCID: PMC9900107 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1051606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is one of the leading causes of lower back pain. Although IVDD cannot directly cause death, it can cause pain, psychological burdens, and economic burdens to patients. Current conservative treatments for IVDD can relieve pain but cannot reverse the disease. Patients who cannot tolerate pain usually resort to a strategy of surgical resection of the degenerated disc. However, the surgical removal of IVDD can affect the stability of adjacent discs. Furthermore, the probability of the reherniation of the intervertebral disc (IVD) after surgery is as high as 21.2%. Strategies based on tissue engineering to deliver stem cells for the regeneration of nucleus purposes (NP) and annulus fibrosus (AF) have been extensively studied. The developed biomaterials not only locally withstand the pressure of the IVD but also lay the foundation for the survival of stem cells. However, the structure of IVDs does not provide sufficient nutrients for delivered stem cells. The role of immune mechanisms in IVDD has recently become clear. In IVDD, the IVD that was originally in immune privilege prevents the attack of immune cells (mainly effector T cells and macrophages) and aggravates the disease. Immune regulatory and inflammatory factors released by effector T cells, macrophages, and the IVD further aggravate IVDD. Reversing IVDD by regulating the inflammatory microenvironment is a potential approach for the treatment of the disease. However, the biological factors modulating the inflammatory microenvironment easily degrade in vivo. It makes it possible for different biomaterials to modulate the inflammatory microenvironment to repair IVDD. In this review, we have discussed the structures of IVDs and the immune mechanisms underlying IVDD. We have described the immune mechanisms elicited by different biological factors, including tumor necrosis factors, interleukins, transforming growth factors, hypoxia-inducible factors, and reactive oxygen species in IVDs. Finally, we have discussed the biomaterials used to modulate the inflammatory microenvironment to repair IVDD and their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanliang Xia
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hengyi Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ruohan Yang
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yulin Hou
- Department of Cardiology, Guangyuan Central Hospital, Guangyuan, China
| | - Yuehong Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianshu Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Changfeng Fu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Changfeng Fu,
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Salzer E, Mouser VHM, Bulsink JA, Tryfonidou MA, Ito K. Dynamic loading leads to increased metabolic activity and spatial redistribution of viable cell density in nucleus pulposus tissue. JOR Spine 2023; 6:e1240. [PMID: 36994465 PMCID: PMC10041377 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Nucleus pulposus (NP) cell density is orchestrated by an interplay between nutrient supply and metabolite accumulation. Physiological loading is essential for tissue homeostasis. However, dynamic loading is also believed to increase metabolic activity and could thereby interfere with cell density regulation and regenerative strategies. The aim of this study was to determine whether dynamic loading could reduce the NP cell density by interacting with its energy metabolism. Methods Bovine NP explants were cultured in a novel NP bioreactor with and without dynamic loading in milieus mimicking the pathophysiological or physiological NP environment. The extracellular content was evaluated biochemically and by Alcian Blue staining. Metabolic activity was determined by measuring glucose and lactate in tissue and medium supernatants. A lactate-dehydrogenase staining was performed to determine the viable cell density (VCD) in the peripheral and core regions of the NP. Results The histological appearance and tissue composition of NP explants did not change in any of the groups. Glucose levels in the tissue reached critical values for cell survival (≤0.5 mM) in all groups. Lactate released into the medium was increased in the dynamically loaded compared to the unloaded groups. While the VCD was unchanged on Day 2 in all regions, it was significantly reduced in the dynamically loaded groups on Day 7 (p ≤ 0.01) in the NP core, which led to a gradient formation of VCD in the group with degenerated NP milieu and dynamic loading (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion It was demonstrated that dynamic loading in a nutrient deprived environment similar to that during IVD degeneration can increase cell metabolism to the extent that it was associated with changes in cell viability leading to a new equilibrium in the NP core. This should be considered for cell injections and therapies that lead to cell proliferation for treatment of IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Salzer
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Vivian H. M. Mouser
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Jurgen A. Bulsink
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Keita Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular SystemsEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
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21
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Tang SN, Bonilla AF, Chahine NO, Colbath AC, Easley JT, Grad S, Haglund L, Le Maitre CL, Leung V, McCoy AM, Purmessur D, Tang SY, Zeiter S, Smith LJ. Controversies in spine research: Organ culture versus in vivo models for studies of the intervertebral disc. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1235. [PMID: 36601369 PMCID: PMC9799089 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration is a common cause of low back pain, the leading cause of disability worldwide. Appropriate preclinical models for intervertebral disc research are essential to achieving a better understanding of underlying pathophysiology and for the development, evaluation, and translation of more effective treatments. To this end, in vivo animal and ex vivo organ culture models are both widely used by spine researchers; however, the relative strengths and weaknesses of these two approaches are a source of ongoing controversy. In this article, members from the Spine and Preclinical Models Sections of the Orthopedic Research Society, including experts in both basic and translational spine research, present contrasting arguments in support of in vivo animal models versus ex vivo organ culture models for studies of the disc, supported by a comprehensive review of the relevant literature. The objective is to provide a deeper understanding of the respective advantages and limitations of these approaches, and advance the field toward a consensus with respect to appropriate model selection and implementation. We conclude that complementary use of several model types and leveraging the unique advantages of each is likely to result in the highest impact research in most instances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley N. Tang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Andres F. Bonilla
- Preclinical Surgical Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColoradoUSA
| | - Nadeen O. Chahine
- Departments of Orthopedic Surgery and Biomedical EngineeringColumbia UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Aimee C. Colbath
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineCornell UniversityIthacaNew YorkUSA
| | - Jeremiah T. Easley
- Preclinical Surgical Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColoradoUSA
| | | | | | | | - Victor Leung
- Department of Orthopaedics and TraumatologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongSARChina
| | - Annette M. McCoy
- Department of Veterinary Clinical MedicineUniversity of IllinoisUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Simon Y. Tang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St LouisSt LouisMissouriUSA
| | | | - Lachlan J. Smith
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and NeurosurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research CenterCorporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical CenterPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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22
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Ahorukomeye P, Weinberg DS, Du JY, Bhandutia AK, Yu CC, Ahn NU. Association between angina pectoris and back pain in a cross-sectional population-based study. INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2022.101630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
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23
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Liu Z, Fu C. Application of single and cooperative different delivery systems for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1058251. [PMID: 36452213 PMCID: PMC9702580 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1058251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is the most universal pathogenesis of low back pain (LBP), a prevalent and costly medical problem across the world. Persistent low back pain can seriously affect a patient's quality of life and even lead to disability. Furthermore, the corresponding medical expenses create a serious economic burden to both individuals and society. Intervertebral disc degeneration is commonly thought to be related to age, injury, obesity, genetic susceptibility, and other risk factors. Nonetheless, its specific pathological process has not been completely elucidated; the current mainstream view considers that this condition arises from the interaction of multiple mechanisms. With the development of medical concepts and technology, clinicians and scientists tend to intervene in the early or middle stages of intervertebral disc degeneration to avoid further aggravation. However, with the aid of modern delivery systems, it is now possible to intervene in the process of intervertebral disc at the cellular and molecular levels. This review aims to provide an overview of the main mechanisms associated with intervertebral disc degeneration and the delivery systems that can help us to improve the efficacy of intervertebral disc degeneration treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongtai Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Changfeng Fu
- Department of Spine Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Lufkin L, Samanta A, Baker D, Lufkin S, Schulze J, Ellis B, Rose J, Lufkin T, Kraus P. Glis1 and oxaloacetate in nucleus pulposus stromal cell somatic reprogramming and survival. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:1009402. [PMID: 36406265 PMCID: PMC9671658 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1009402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerative medicine aims to repair degenerate tissue through cell refurbishment with minimally invasive procedures. Adipose tissue (FAT)-derived stem or stromal cells are a convenient autologous choice for many regenerative cell therapy approaches. The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a suitable target. Comprised of an inner nucleus pulposus (NP) and an outer annulus fibrosus (AF), the degeneration of the IVD through trauma or aging presents a substantial socio-economic burden worldwide. The avascular nature of the mature NP forces cells to reside in a unique environment with increased lactate levels, conditions that pose a challenge to cell-based therapies. We assessed adipose and IVD tissue-derived stromal cells through in vitro transcriptome analysis in 2D and 3D culture and suggested that the transcription factor Glis1 and metabolite oxaloacetic acid (OAA) could provide NP cells with survival tools for the harsh niche conditions in the IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon Lufkin
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States,The Clarkson School, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States
| | - Ankita Samanta
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States
| | - DeVaun Baker
- The Clarkson School, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States,Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States
| | - Sina Lufkin
- The Clarkson School, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States,Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States
| | | | - Benjamin Ellis
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States
| | - Jillian Rose
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States
| | - Thomas Lufkin
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States
| | - Petra Kraus
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, United States,*Correspondence: Petra Kraus,
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Zhou N, Shen B, Bai C, Ma L, Wang S, Wu D. Nutritional deficiency induces nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis via the ATF4-PKM2-AKT signal axis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:946. [PMID: 36324122 PMCID: PMC9628105 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05853-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The intervertebral disc is the largest avascular tissue in the human body. The nucleus pulposus (NP) consumes glucose and oxygen to generate energy to maintain cellular metabolism via nutrients that diffuse from the cartilage endplate. The microenvironment in the intervertebral disc becomes nutritionally deficient during degeneration, and nutritional deficiency has been shown to inhibit the viability and proliferation of NP cells. Methods To investigate the molecular mechanism by which nutritional deficiency reduces viability and decreases proliferation, we created an in vitro model by using decreasing serum concentration percentages. Results In this study, we found that nutritional deficiency reduced NP cell viability and increased cell apoptosis and that the upregulation of ATF4 expression and the downregulation of PKM2 expression were involved in this process. Moreover, we found that PKM2 inhibition can reduce the cell apoptosis induced by ATF4 silence under nutritional deficiency. Conclusion Our findings revealed that PKM2 inhibition reduces the cell apoptosis induced by ATF4 silence under nutritional deficiency by inhibiting AKT phosphate. Revealing the function and mechanism of NP cell development under nutritional deficiency will provide new insights into the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of intervertebral disc and related diseases. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-022-05853-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningfeng Zhou
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Spinal Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Shen
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Spinal Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chong Bai
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Spinal Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Ma
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Spinal Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shanjin Wang
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Spinal Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Desheng Wu
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Spinal Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Léger MC, Dion C, Albert WJ, Cardoso MR. The biomechanical benefits of active sitting. ERGONOMICS 2022:1-18. [PMID: 36226515 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2132298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examined the biomechanical effects of two active chairs (AC1: had the feature to pedal and slide forward on the seat pan; AC2: a multiaxial motion seat pan) compared to a traditional office chair and standing workstation. Twenty-four healthy participants worked at each of the workstations for 60-min. The following equipment was used: Motion Capture, Electromyography, Ratings of Perceived Discomfort Questionnaire, and Exit Survey. The active protocol had positive effects on the body, including increased neuromuscular activity in the gastrocnemius, increased overall movement, and a more open trunk-thigh angle. Greater discomfort in the buttocks due to the lack of seat pan contour was reported for the AC1 which identified a need for a design modification. While standing, participants' shoulders were less flexed than when sitting in any of the three seats, however, greater discomfort was reported in the lower legs after 1 h of computer work. Practitioner summary: A comparison of four different workstations was conducted to further understand the use of active workstations. Active sitting was found to have positive effects on the body, such as allowing sitters to increase movement while sitting without the high activation of muscular activity. Standing can also provide a positive break from sitting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C Léger
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, Canada
| | - Cynthia Dion
- École de Kinésiologie et de Loisir, Université de Moncton, Moncton, Canada
| | - Wayne J Albert
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, Canada
| | - Michelle R Cardoso
- École de Kinésiologie et de Loisir, Université de Moncton, Moncton, Canada
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Xia Y, Yang R, Hou Y, Wang H, Li Y, Zhu J, Fu C. Application of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes from different sources in intervertebral disc degeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1019437. [PMID: 36277386 PMCID: PMC9585200 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1019437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a main cause of lower back pain, leading to psychological and economic burdens to patients. Physical therapy only delays pain in patients but cannot eliminate the cause of IVDD. Surgery is required when the patient cannot tolerate pain or has severe neurological symptoms. Although surgical resection of IVD or decompression of the laminae eliminates the diseased segment, it damages adjacent normal IVD. There is also a risk of re-protrusion after IVD removal. Cell therapy has played a crucial role in the development of regenerative medicine. Cell transplantation promotes regeneration of degenerative tissue. However, owing to the lack of vascular structure in IVD, sufficient nutrients cannot be provided for transplanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In addition, dead cells release harmful substances that aggravate IVDD. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been extensively studied as an emerging therapeutic approach. EVs generated by paracrine MSCs retain the potential of MSCs and serve as carriers to deliver their contents to target cells to regulate target cell activity. Owing to their double-layered membrane structure, EVs have a low immunogenicity and no immune rejection. Therefore, EVs are considered an emerging therapeutic modality in IVDD. However, they are limited by mass production and low loading rates. In this review, the structure of IVD and advantages of EVs are introduced, and the application of MSC-EVs in IVDD is discussed. The current limitations of EVs and future applications are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanliang Xia
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ruohan Yang
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yulin Hou
- Department of Cardiology, Guangyuan Central Hospital, Guangyuan, China
| | - Hengyi Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuehong Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianshu Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Changfeng Fu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Changfeng Fu,
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Shanmuganathan R, Tangavel C, K S SVA, Muthurajan R, Nayagam SM, Matchado MS, Rajendran S, Kanna RM, Shetty AP. Comparative metagenomic analysis of human intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus and cartilaginous end plates. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:927652. [PMID: 36247458 PMCID: PMC9554234 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.927652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Study design The diversity of microflora inhabiting endplate (EP) and nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues of human intervertebral disc (IVD) was profiled through NGS-supported 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Sixteen EP and their corresponding NP were excised from the brain-dead voluntary organ donors with no clinical history of low back pain, and 12 herniated and 8 degenerated NP tissues isolated from the patients undergoing spinal surgery were subjected to study the alteration in the microbial diversity. Objective(s) To understand in normal IVD, whether the colonization of bacteria to the NP is through the EP in discs with intact annulus fibrosus. To identify significantly differing microbial population(s) between normal and diseased IVD (NP). Background of the study There is increasing evidence for subclinical infection by fastidious low, growing bacteria to be a cause of disc degeneration. Although the presence of bacteria in NP has been reported well in literature, the source of bacteria is not clearly proved as the disc is avascular in healthy condition. Documentation of similar bacterial populations in the EP and NP may add proof that bacterial inoculation of NP occurs via the EP. Materials and methods Sixteen EP and their corresponding NP excised from brain-dead voluntary organ donors with no history of back pain and 20 diseased discs collected from patients undergoing microdiscectomy/fusion surgery were used for profiling microbiome through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing using primers specific for V1-V9 hypervariable regions. Changes in bacterial diversity and abundance were analysed to identify the key microbial populations in normal IVD NP and EP tissues and those significantly altered in diseased IVD (NP). Results NP and EP shared a similar spectrum of microbiome but with varying abundance. The five dominant phyla identified were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, OD1, and Bacteroidetes. Proteobacteria was found to be the most abundant phyla in both NP (62%) and EP (53%) of the normal IVD. This was followed by Firmicutes (16%), Actinobacteriota (11%), OD1 (Parcubacteria) (7.6%), and Bacteroidetes (2%) in NP and Firmicutes (23.4%), OD1 (Parcubacteria) (17.6%), Actinobacteriota (2.8%), and Bacteroidetes (2.6%) in EP, respectively. Under diseased conditions, Proteobacteria (68%) was dominant when compared with other phyla. However, there was no significant difference in the abundance of Proteobacteria between the normal and diseased discs. Interestingly, the other dominant phyla such as Firmicutes (Normal-NP: 16.2%; Diseased-NP: 4.02%) and Actinobacteria (Normal-NP: 11%; Diseased-NP: 0.99%) showed a significant reduction in degenerated discs. To understand the key microbial populations that are significantly altered during disease, correlation analysis was performed among the three phyla, which revealed a negative correlation in the ratio of Actinobacteria + Firmicutes vs. Proteobacteria (p = 0.001) in DD. Conclusion Results of our study clearly demonstrated a similar bacterial diversity but with varying abundance between the EP and NP, suggesting the existence of the endplate–nucleus pulposus axis in the normal IVD microbiome. Further, our results have indicated that the changes in the abundance of Actinobacteria + Firmicutes vs. Proteobacteria during DDD need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore, India
- *Correspondence: Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan
| | - Chitraa Tangavel
- Department of Biotechnology, Ganga Research Centre, Coimbatore, India
| | | | - Raveendran Muthurajan
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India
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McDonnell EE, Buckley CT. Two‐ and three‐dimensional in vitro nucleus pulposus cultures: An in silico analysis of local nutrient microenvironments. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1222. [PMID: 36203867 PMCID: PMC9520769 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is well established that the unique biochemical microenvironment of the intervertebral disc plays a predominant role in cell viability and biosynthesis. However, unless the effect of microenvironmental conditions is primary to a study objective, in vitro culture parameters that are critical for reproducibility are both varied and not routinely reported. Aims This work aims to investigate the local microenvironments of commonly used culture configurations, highlighting physiological relevance, potential discrepancies, and elucidating possible heterogeneity across the research field. Materials and Methods This work uses nutrient‐transport in silico models to reflect on the effect of often underappreciated parameters, such as culture geometry and diffusional distance (vessel, media volume, construct size), seeding density, and external boundary conditions on the local microenvironment of two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) in vitro culture systems. Results We elucidate important discrepancies between the external boundary conditions such as the incubator level or media concentrations and the actual local cellular concentrations. Oxygen concentration and cell seeding density were found to be highly influential parameters and require utmost consideration when utilizing 3D culture systems. Discussion This work highlights that large variations in the local nutrient microenvironment can easily be established without consideration of several key parameters. Without careful deliberation of the microenvironment within each specific and unique system, there is the potential to confound in vitro results leading to heterogeneous results across the research field in terms of biosynthesis and matrix composition. Conclusion Overall, this calls for a greater appreciation of key parameters when designing in vitro experiments. Better harmony and standardization of physiologically relevant local microenvironments are needed to push toward reproducibility and successful translation of findings across the research field. Large variations in the local nutrient microenvironment can easily be established without careful consideration of several key parameters. While one external concentration may be suitable for one culture configuration, they may not be appropriate for another. External conditions need to be tailored to the specific cells and culture system to establish homogeneous and physiologically relevant microenvironments. Taken together, more deliberate consideration of the external boundary concentrations and in vitro culture design, harmony and standardization of a physiologically relevant microenvironment will push toward greater reproducibility and more successful translation of findings across the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E. McDonnell
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Conor T. Buckley
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland
- Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland & Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland
- Tissue Engineering Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Dublin Ireland
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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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Che YJ, Guo JB, Hao YF, Luo ZP. Regenerating and repairing degenerative intervertebral discs by regulating the micro/nano environment of degenerative bony endplates based on low-tension mechanics. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:462. [PMID: 35578221 PMCID: PMC9112526 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05422-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Conservative treatment is the recommended first-line treatment for degenerative disc diseases. Traction therapy has historically been one of the most common clinical methods to address this, but the clinical effect remains controversial. Methods Forty-two six-month-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups: the model group (Group A, four coccyx vertebrae (Co7-Co10) were fixed with customized external fixators, and the vertebral disc degeneration model was constructed by axial compression of the target segment Co8 - Co9 for 4 weeks), the experimental control group (Group B, after successful modeling, the external fixation device was removed and self-rehabilitation was performed) and four intervention groups (Groups C to F): Groups C and E: Co8 - Co9 vertebrae compressed for 4 weeks followed by two or 4 weeks of high tension traction (HTT), respectively, and Groups D and F: vertebrae compressed for 4 weeks followed by two or 4 weeks of low-tension traction (LTT), respectively. Imaging tests (X-ray and MRI) were performed to assess disc height and T2 signal intensity at each time point. After the experiment, the animals were euthanized, and the caudal vertebrae were collected for analysis of intervertebral disc histopathology, proteoglycan content, and micronanostructure of the annulus fibrosus, nucleus pulposus and bony endplate. Results Signs of tissue regeneration were apparent in all four intervention groups. After two to 4 weeks of intervention (HTT and LTT), the morphology of pores in the bony endplate, their number, and diameter had recovered significantly compared with those in Group A. The LTT group was superior to the HTT group, and the 4w in situ group was significantly superior to the 2w group. Meanwhile, the histological scores of discs, the mean fibril diameter and modulus of annulus fibrosus were significantly improved compared with the control groups, and the LTT group was superior to HTT group. Conclusions Low-tension traction better promotes active reconstruction of bony endplates and improves the elastic modulus and micro/nanostructure of the disc. Thus, it further promotes the regeneration and repair of intervertebral discs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Jun Che
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215008, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Jiang-Bo Guo
- Department of Orthopaedics, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, 708 Renmin Rd, SuZhou, Jiangsu, 215007, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Feng Hao
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zong-Ping Luo
- Department of Orthopaedics, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, 708 Renmin Rd, SuZhou, Jiangsu, 215007, People's Republic of China
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ISSLS Prize in Bioengineering Science 2022: low rate cyclic loading as a therapeutic strategy for intervertebral disc regeneration. 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 2022; 31:1088-1098. [PMID: 35524071 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-022-07239-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intervertebral disc degenerates with age and has a poor propensity for regeneration. Small molecule transport plays a key role in long-term degradation and repair. Convection (bulk flow), induced by low rate cyclic loading of the intervertebral disc, has been shown to increase transport of small molecules. However, the potential therapeutic benefit of low rate cyclic loading on degenerated discs has not been described. The purpose of this study was to determine if a sustained (daily) low rate cyclic loading regimen could slow, arrest, or reverse intervertebral disc degeneration in the rabbit lumbar spine. METHODS Fifty-six New Zealand white rabbits (>12 months old) were designated as either Control (no disc puncture), 8D (disc puncture followed by 8 weeks of degeneration), 16D (disc puncture followed by 16 weeks of degeneration), or Therapy (disc puncture followed by 8 weeks of degeneration and then 8 weeks of daily low rate cyclic loading). Specimens were evaluated by T2 mapping, Pfirrmann scale grading, nucleus volume, disc height index, disc morphology and structure, and proteoglycan content. RESULTS In every metric, mean values for the Therapy group fell between Controls and 8D animals. These results suggest that sustained low rate cyclic loading had a therapeutic effect on the already degenerated disc and the regimen promoted signs of regeneration. If these results translate clinically, this approach could fulfil a significant clinical need by providing a means of non-invasively treating intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Effects of Changes in Osmolarity on the Biological Activity of Human Normal Nucleus Pulposus Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:1121064. [PMID: 35502327 PMCID: PMC9056247 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1121064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The expansion and maintenance of the NPMSC (nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cell) phenotype are considered as potential therapeutic tools for clinical applications in intervertebral disc tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. However, the harsh microenvironment within the intervertebral disc is the main limitation of its regeneration. The osmolarity of the intervertebral disc is higher than that of other tissues, which has an important influence on the biological characteristics of NPMSCs. In this study, we observed the effect of different osmolarities on the biological characteristics of human normal NPMSCs cultured in vitro and explored the role of osmolarity in intervertebral disc degeneration. Our data demonstrated that the change in osmotic pressure has an important effect on the biological activity of NPMSCs, and this effect may occur through the P16INK4A/Rb pathway. This study provides a theoretical basis for the future treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Impact of Microenvironmental Changes during Degeneration on Intervertebral Disc Progenitor Cells: A Comparison with Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9040148. [PMID: 35447707 PMCID: PMC9025850 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9040148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration occurs with natural ageing and is linked to low back pain, a common disease. As an avascular tissue, the microenvironment inside the IVD is harsh. During degeneration, the condition becomes even more compromised, presenting a significant challenge to the survival and function of the resident cells, as well as to any regeneration attempts using cell implantation. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been proposed as a candidate stem cell tool for IVD regeneration. Recently, endogenous IVD progenitor cells have been identified inside the IVD, highlighting their potential for self-repair. IVD progenitor cells have properties similar to MSCs, with minor differences in potency and surface marker expression. Currently, it is unclear how IVD progenitor cells react to microenvironmental factors and in what ways they possibly behave differently to MSCs. Here, we first summarized the microenvironmental factors presented in the IVD and their changes during degeneration. Then, we analyzed the available studies on the responses of IVD progenitor cells and MSCs to these factors, and made comparisons between these two types of cells, when possible, in an attempt to achieve a clear understanding of the characteristics of IVD progenitor cells when compared to MSCs; as well as, to provide possible clues to cell fate after implantation, which may facilitate future manipulation and design of IVD regeneration studies.
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Ligorio C, Hoyland JA, Saiani A. Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogels as Functional Tools to Tackle Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Gels 2022; 8:gels8040211. [PMID: 35448112 PMCID: PMC9028266 DOI: 10.3390/gels8040211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP), caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, is a major contributor to global disability. In its healthy state, the IVD is a tough and well-hydrated tissue, able to act as a shock absorber along the spine. During degeneration, the IVD is hit by a cell-driven cascade of events, which progressively lead to extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, chronic inflammation, and pain. Current treatments are divided into palliative care (early stage degeneration) and surgical interventions (late-stage degeneration), which are invasive and poorly efficient in the long term. To overcome these limitations, alternative tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies, in which soft biomaterials are used as injectable carriers of cells and/or biomolecules to be delivered to the injury site and restore tissue function, are currently being explored. Self-assembling peptide hydrogels (SAPHs) represent a promising class of de novo synthetic biomaterials able to merge the strengths of both natural and synthetic hydrogels for biomedical applications. Inherent features, such as shear-thinning behaviour, high biocompatibility, ECM biomimicry, and tuneable physiochemical properties make these hydrogels appropriate and functional tools to tackle IVD degeneration. This review will describe the pathogenesis of IVD degeneration, list biomaterials requirements to attempt IVD repair, and focus on current peptide hydrogel materials exploited for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosimo Ligorio
- Department of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 3BB, UK;
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PG, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PG, UK;
| | - Alberto Saiani
- Department of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 3BB, UK;
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
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Edifying the Focal Factors Influencing Mesenchymal Stem Cells by the Microenvironment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration in Low Back Pain. Pain Res Manag 2022; 2022:6235400. [PMID: 35386857 PMCID: PMC8977320 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6235400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is one of the main triggers of low back pain, which is most often associated with patient morbidity and high medical costs. IVDD triggers a wide range of pathologies and clinical syndromes like paresthesia, weakness of extremities, and intermittent/chronic back pain. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated to possess immunomodulatory functions as well as the capability of differentiating into chondrocytes under appropriate microenvironment conditions, which makes them potentially epitome for intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration. The IVD microenvironment is composed by niche of cells, and their chemical and physical milieus have been exhibited to have robust influence on MSC behavior as well as differentiation. Nevertheless, the contribution of MSCs to the IVD milieu conditions in healthy as well as degeneration situations is still a matter of debate. It is still not clear which factors, if any, are essential for effective and efficient MSC survival, proliferation, and differentiation. IVD microenvironment clues such as nucleopulpocytes, potential of hydrogen (pH), osmotic changes, glucose, hypoxia, apoptosis, pyroptosis, and hydrogels are capable of influencing the MSCs aimed for the treatment of IVDD. Therefore, clinical usage of MSCs ought to take into consideration these microenvironment clues during treatment. Alteration in these factors could function as prognostic indicators during the treatment of patients with IVDD using MSCs. Thus, standardized valves for these microenvironment clues are warranted.
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Hickman TT, Rathan-Kumar S, Peck SH. Development, Pathogenesis, and Regeneration of the Intervertebral Disc: Current and Future Insights Spanning Traditional to Omics Methods. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:841831. [PMID: 35359439 PMCID: PMC8963184 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.841831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is the fibrocartilaginous joint located between each vertebral body that confers flexibility and weight bearing capabilities to the spine. The IVD plays an important role in absorbing shock and stress applied to the spine, which helps to protect not only the vertebral bones, but also the brain and the rest of the central nervous system. Degeneration of the IVD is correlated with back pain, which can be debilitating and severely affects quality of life. Indeed, back pain results in substantial socioeconomic losses and healthcare costs globally each year, with about 85% of the world population experiencing back pain at some point in their lifetimes. Currently, therapeutic strategies for treating IVD degeneration are limited, and as such, there is great interest in advancing treatments for back pain. Ideally, treatments for back pain would restore native structure and thereby function to the degenerated IVD. However, the complex developmental origin and tissue composition of the IVD along with the avascular nature of the mature disc makes regeneration of the IVD a uniquely challenging task. Investigators across the field of IVD research have been working to elucidate the mechanisms behind the formation of this multifaceted structure, which may identify new therapeutic targets and inform development of novel regenerative strategies. This review summarizes current knowledge base on IVD development, degeneration, and regenerative strategies taken from traditional genetic approaches and omics studies and discusses the future landscape of investigations in IVD research and advancement of clinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara T. Hickman
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sudiksha Rathan-Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sun H. Peck
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- *Correspondence: Sun H. Peck,
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Next-generation sequencing (NGS) to determine microbiome of herniated intervertebral disc. Spine J 2022; 22:389-398. [PMID: 34547388 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT There is apparent causality between chronic infection of the intervertebral disc and its degenerative process. Although disc is considered a sterile tissue, collected samples of uninfected patients sent to culture testing resulted positive. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to analyze the microbiome of the intervertebral disc by using and validating the next-generation sequencing (NGS) molecular test, controlled with tissue culture and clinical presentation of patients. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Prospective study of consecutive patients in a hospital. PATIENT SAMPLE Patients with lumbar disc herniation undergoing open microdiscectomy aging 18 to 65 years. OUTCOME MEASURES NGS, tissue culture METHODS: Subjects undergoing open decompression surgery for lumbar disc herniation were consecutively included and clinically followed for one year. Three samples of the excised herniated disc fragment were sent to tissue culture and another sample of the disc was sent to NGS test for microbiome analysis. Control samples of the ligamentum flavum and deep muscle were collected and sent to culture. RESULTS A total of 17 patients were included. All patients presented negative cultures of the removed disc samples, as well as negative cultures of muscle and yellow ligament. None of the patients evolved to clinical infection one year after surgery, nor presented significant alteration of laboratory markers. NGS mapped a mean of 14,645 (range 6,540 to 27,176) DNA sequences for each disc sample of each patient. There were a total of 45 different bacteria genera remnants with different amount of DNA sequences detected. There was a mean of 8 (range 3-17) different bacterial elements in each sample of intervertebral disc. Three bacteria were present in all disc samples (Herbaspirillum, Ralstonia, and Burkolderia). Although there were a considerable mean number of bacterial sequences mapped in each disc sample, the amount of sequences related to bacteria was low. Cutibacterium acnes elements was not found in any disc microbiome analysis. CONCLUSIONS NGS has been proven to adequately determine bacterial DNA presence within the intervertebral disc. C. acnes was not isolated in culture neither in microbiome analysis of patients with lumbar disc herniation. We cannot confirm disc sterility since, even if it does not cause infection, there is bacterial or remnant DNA in herniated discs.
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McDonnell EE, Buckley CT. Consolidating and re-evaluating the human disc nutrient microenvironment. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1192. [PMID: 35386756 PMCID: PMC8966889 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite exciting advances in regenerative medicine, cell‐based strategies for treating degenerative disc disease remain in their infancy. To maximize the potential for successful clinical translation, a more thorough understanding of the in vivo microenvironment is needed to better determine and predict how cell therapies will respond when administered in vivo. Aims This work aims to reflect on the in vivo nutrient microenvironment of the degenerating IVD through consolidating what has already been measured together with investigative in silico models. Materials and Methods This work uses in silico modeling, underpinned by more recent experimentally determined parameters of degeneration and nutrient transport from the literature, to re‐evaluate the current knowledge in terms of grade‐specific stages of degeneration. Results Through modeling only the metabolically active cell population, this work predicts slightly higher glucose concentrations compared to previous in silico models, while the predicted results show good agreement with previous intradiscal pH and oxygen measurements. Increasing calcification with degeneration limits nutrient transport into the IVD and initiates a build‐up of acidity; however, its effect is compensated somewhat by a reduction in diffusional distance due to decreasing disc height. Discussion This work advances in silico modeling through a strong foundation of experimentally determined grade‐specific input parameters. Taken together, pre‐existing measurements and predicted results suggest that metabolite concentrations may not be as critically low as commonly believed, with calcification not appearing to have a detrimental effect at stages of degeneration when cell therapies are an appropriate intervention. Conclusion Overall, our initiative is to provoke greater deliberation and consideration of the nutrient microenvironment when performing in vitro cell culture and cell therapy development. This work highlights urgency for robust experimental glucose measurements in healthy and degenerating IVDs, not only to validate in silico models but to significantly advance the field in fully elucidating the nutrient microenvironment and refining in vitro techniques to accelerate clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E McDonnell
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland.,Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Conor T Buckley
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland.,Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland.,Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland & Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland.,Tissue Engineering Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Dublin Ireland
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Kritschil R, Scott M, Sowa G, Vo N. Role of autophagy in intervertebral disc degeneration. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:1266-1284. [PMID: 34787318 PMCID: PMC8866220 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a leading contributor to low back pain. The intervertebral disc (IVD) is composed of three tissue types: the central gelatinous nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue, the surrounding annulus fibrosus (AF) tissue, and the inferior and superior cartilage endplates. The IVD microenvironment is hypoxic, acidic, hyperosmotic, and low in nutrients because it is mostly avascular. The cellular processes that underlie IDD initiation and progression are still poorly understood. Specifically, a lack of understanding regarding NP cell metabolism and physiology hinders the development of effective therapeutics to treat IDD patients. Autophagy is a vital intracellular degradation process that removes damaged organelles, misfolded proteins, and intracellular pathogens and recycles the degraded components for cellular energy and function. NP cells have adapted to survive within their harsh tissue microenvironment using processes that are largely unknown, and we postulate autophagy is one of these undiscovered mechanisms. In this review, we describe unique features of the IVD tissue, review how physiological stressors impact autophagy in NP cells in vitro, survey the current understanding of autophagy regulation in the IVD, and assess the relationship between autophagy and IDD. Published studies confirm autophagy markers are present in IVD tissue, and IVD cells can regulate autophagy in response to cellular stressors in vitro. However, data are still lacking to determine the exact mechanisms regulating autophagy in IVD cells. More in-depth research is needed to establish whether autophagy is necessary to maintain IVD cell health and validate autophagy as a relevant therapeutic target for treating IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Kritschil
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Melanie Scott
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA,Pittsburgh Trauma Research Center, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Gwendolyn Sowa
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Nam Vo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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Peng Y, Li J, Lin H, Tian S, Liu S, Pu F, Zhao L, Ma K, Qing X, Shao Z, Yp, Zs, Xq, Yp, Yp, Xq, Jl, St, Yp, Xq, Jl, St, Sl, Fp, Lz, Km, Xq, Yp, Xq, Hs, St, Yp, Jl, Hl, St, Lz, Fp, Sl, Zs, Xq. Endogenous repair theory enriches construction strategies for orthopaedic biomaterials: a narrative review. BIOMATERIALS TRANSLATIONAL 2021; 2:343-360. [PMID: 35837417 PMCID: PMC9255795 DOI: 10.12336/biomatertransl.2021.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of tissue engineering has led to new strategies for mitigating clinical problems; however, the design of the tissue engineering materials remains a challenge. The limited sources and inadequate function, potential risk of microbial or pathogen contamination, and high cost of cell expansion impair the efficacy and limit the application of exogenous cells in tissue engineering. However, endogenous cells in native tissues have been reported to be capable of spontaneous repair of the damaged tissue. These cells exhibit remarkable plasticity, and thus can differentiate or be reprogrammed to alter their phenotype and function after stimulation. After a comprehensive review, we found that the plasticity of these cells plays a major role in establishing the cell source in the mechanism involved in tissue regeneration. Tissue engineering materials that focus on assisting and promoting the natural self-repair function of endogenous cells may break through the limitations of exogenous seed cells and further expand the applications of tissue engineering materials in tissue repair. This review discusses the effects of endogenous cells, especially stem cells, on injured tissue repairing, and highlights the potential utilisation of endogenous repair in orthopaedic biomaterial constructions for bone, cartilage, and intervertebral disc regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Zengwu Shao
- Corresponding authors: Zengwu Shao, ; Xiangcheng Qing,
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Krut Z, Pelled G, Gazit D, Gazit Z. Stem Cells and Exosomes: New Therapies for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092241. [PMID: 34571890 PMCID: PMC8471333 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) occurs as a result of an imbalance of the anabolic and catabolic processes in the intervertebral disc, leading to an alteration in the composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM), loss of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, excessive oxidative stress and inflammation. Degeneration of the IVD occurs naturally with age, but mechanical trauma, lifestyle factors and certain genetic abnormalities can increase the likelihood of symptomatic disease progression. IVDD, often referred to as degenerative disc disease (DDD), poses an increasingly substantial financial burden due to the aging population and increasing incidence of obesity in the United States. Current treatments for IVDD include pharmacological and surgical interventions, but these lack the ability to stop the progression of disease and restore the functionality of the IVD. Biological therapies have been evaluated but show varying degrees of efficacy in reversing disc degeneration long-term. Stem cell-based therapies have shown promising results in the regeneration of the IVD, but face both biological and ethical limitations. Exosomes play an important role in intercellular communication, and stem cell-derived exosomes have been shown to maintain the therapeutic benefit of their origin cells without the associated risks. This review highlights the current state of research on the use of stem-cell derived exosomes in the treatment of IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Krut
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (Z.K.); (G.P.); (D.G.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Gadi Pelled
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (Z.K.); (G.P.); (D.G.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Dan Gazit
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (Z.K.); (G.P.); (D.G.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Zulma Gazit
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (Z.K.); (G.P.); (D.G.)
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Correspondence:
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Su Q, Li Y, Feng X, Tan J, Ge H, Cheng B, Zhang Y. Association and histological characteristics of endplate injury and intervertebral disc degeneration in a rat model. Injury 2021; 52:2084-2094. [PMID: 34176634 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2021.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to construct a rat caudal vertebral body fracture model and to analyze the association and histological characteristics of vertebral body fracture with endplate injury and adjacent intervertebral disc degeneration. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study included 144 clean-grade male Sprague-Dawley rats, which were randomly divided into a control, middle vertebral body injury (MI), and endplate injury (EI) groups. A vertebral body fracture with or without endplate injury was developed by either drilling a hole in the middle of a rat caudal vertebral body to create a fracture with an intact endplate or drilling a hole in the vertebral body near the intervertebral disc to create a vertebral body fracture with endplate injury. The histological differences in the adjacent intervertebral discs of vertebral body fractures with or without endplate injury were detected using imaging, non-specific histological staining, immunohistochemistry and TUNEL assay. RESULTS Imaging results revealed that the EI group showed a significant decrease in intervertebral space height and intervertebral disc T2 signal over time. Non-specific histological staining revealed that in the EI group, the intervertebral disc was degenerative. Immunohistochemistry indicated that Aggrecan and Collagen-II were decreased and inflammatory factors were increased in the EI group. The TUNEL detection found that apoptosis was significantly increased in the EI group as compared with the MI and control groups. CONCLUSION In rat caudal vertebral body fractures, a fracture with endplate injury is more likely to induce or accelerate degeneration of adjacent intervertebral discs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihang Su
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine. No.301 Yanchang Middle Road, Shanghai 200072, China; Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China. No. 150 Jimo Road, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Yongchao Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China. No. 150 Jimo Road, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Xiaofei Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China. No. 150 Jimo Road, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Jun Tan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, China. No. 150 Jimo Road, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Hengan Ge
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine. No.301 Yanchang Middle Road, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Biao Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine. No.301 Yanchang Middle Road, Shanghai 200072, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital. No.1 North Huanhu West Road, Tianjin 300060, China
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Wu X, Liu Y, Du J, Li X, Lin J, Ni L, Zhu P, Zhou H, Kong F, Yang H, Geng D, Mao H. Melatonin Attenuates Intervertebral Disk Degeneration via Maintaining Cartilaginous Endplate Integrity in Rats. Front Physiol 2021; 12:672572. [PMID: 34220535 PMCID: PMC8248798 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.672572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study is to verify whether melatonin (Mel) could mitigate intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD) in rats and to investigate the potential mechanism of it. Method A rat acupuncture model of IVDD was established with intraperitoneal injection of Mel. The effect of Mel on IVDD was analyzed via radiologic and histological evaluations. The specific Mel receptors were investigated in both the nucleus pulposus (NP) and cartilaginous endplates (EPs). In vitro, EP cartilaginous cells (EPCs) were treated by different concentrations of Mel under lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Luzindole conditions. In addition, LPS-induced inflammatory response and matrix degradation following nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway activation were investigated to confirm the potential mechanism of Mel on EPCs. Results The percent disk height index (%DHI) and MRI signal decreased after initial puncture in the degeneration group compared with the control group, while Mel treatment protected disk height from decline and prevented the loss of water during the degeneration process. In the meantime, the histological staining of the Mel groups showed more integrity and well-ordered construction of the NP and EPs in both low and high concentration than that of the degeneration group. In addition, more deep-brown staining of type II collagen (Coll-II) was shown in the Mel groups compared with the degeneration group. Furthermore, in rat samples, immunohistochemical staining showed more positive cells of Mel receptors 1a and 1b in the EPs, instead of in the NP. Moreover, evident osteochondral lacuna formation was observed in rat EPs in the degeneration group; after Mel treatment, the osteochondral destruction alleviated accompanying fewer receptor activator for nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-stained positive cells expressed in the EPs. In vitro, Mel could promote the proliferation of EPCs, which protected EPCs from degeneration under LPS treatment. What is more, Mel downregulated the inflammatory response and matrix degradation of EPCs activated by NF-κB pathway through binding to its specific receptors. Conclusion These results indicate that Mel protects the integrity of the EPs and attenuates IVDD by binding to the Mel receptors in the EPs. It may alleviate the inflammatory response and matrix degradation of EPCs activated by NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiexing Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yijie Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiacheng Du
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaoping Li
- Department of Clinical Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiayi Lin
- Department of Orthopedics Center, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Li Ni
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fanchen Kong
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Dechun Geng
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Haiqing Mao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Sun Q, Tian FM, Liu F, Fang JK, Hu YP, Lian QQ, Zhou Z, Zhang L. Denosumab alleviates intervertebral disc degeneration adjacent to lumbar fusion by inhibiting endplate osteochondral remodeling and vertebral osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. Arthritis Res Ther 2021; 23:152. [PMID: 34049577 PMCID: PMC8161944 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02525-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although adjacent segmental intervertebral disc degeneration (ASDD) is one of the most common complications after lumbar fusion, its exact mechanism remains unclear. As an antibody to RANKL, denosumab (Dmab) effectively reduces bone resorption and stimulates bone formation, which can increase bone mineral density (BMD) and improve osteoporosis. However, it has not been confirmed whether Dmab has a reversing or retarding effect on ASDD. Methods Three-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats that underwent L4–L5 posterolateral lumbar fusion (PLF) with spinous-process wire fixation 4 weeks after bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) surgery were given Dmab 4 weeks after PLF surgery (OVX+PLF+Dmab group). In addition, the following control groups were defined: Sham, OVX, PLF, and OVX+PLF (n=12 each). Next, manual palpation and X-ray were used to evaluate the state of lumbar fusion. The bone microstructure in the lumbar vertebra and endplate as well as the disc height index (DHI) of L5/6 was evaluated by microcomputed tomography (μCT). The characteristic alterations of ASDD were identified via Safranin-O green staining. Osteoclasts were detected using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, and the biomechanical properties of vertebrae were evaluated. Aggrecan (Agg), metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 (ADAMTS-4) expression in the intervertebral disc were detected by immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. In addition, the expression of CD24 and Sox-9 was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results Manual palpation showed clear evidence of the fused segment’s immobility. Compared to the OVX+PLF group, more new bone formation was observed by X-ray examination in the OVX+PLF+Dmab group. Dmab significantly alleviated ASDD by retaining disc height index (DHI), decreasing endplate porosity, and increasing vertebral biomechanical properties and BMD. TRAP staining results showed a significantly decreased number of active osteoclasts after Dmab treatment, especially in subchondral bone and cartilaginous endplates. Moreover, the protein and mRNA expression results in discs (IVDs) showed that Dmab not only inhibited matrix degradation by decreasing MMP-13 and ADAMTS-4 but also promoted matrix synthesis by increasing Agg. Dmab maintained the number of notochord cells by increasing CD24 but reducing Sox-9. Conclusions These results suggest that Dmab may be a novel therapeutic target for ASDD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Fa-Ming Tian
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Liu
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Kang Fang
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun-Peng Hu
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang-Qiang Lian
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuang Zhou
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Oncology, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Liu Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hebei Medical University, 361 Zhongshan ERoad, Hebei, 050000, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China.
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Wang D, Hartman R, Han C, Zhou CM, Couch B, Malkamaki M, Roginskaya V, Van Houten B, Mullett SJ, Wendell SG, Jurczak MJ, Kang J, Lee J, Sowa G, Vo N. Lactate oxidative phosphorylation by annulus fibrosus cells: evidence for lactate-dependent metabolic symbiosis in intervertebral discs. Arthritis Res Ther 2021; 23:145. [PMID: 34020698 PMCID: PMC8139157 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02501-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc degeneration contributes to low back pain. The avascular intervertebral disc consists of a central hypoxic nucleus pulpous (NP) surrounded by the more oxygenated annulus fibrosus (AF). Lactic acid, an abundant end-product of NP glycolysis, has long been viewed as a harmful waste that acidifies disc tissue and decreases cell viability and function. As lactic acid is readily converted into lactate in disc tissue, the objective of this study was to determine whether lactate could be used by AF cells as a carbon source rather than being removed from disc tissue as a waste byproduct. Methods Import and conversion of lactate to tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates and amino acids in rabbit AF cells were measured by heavy-isotope (13C-lactate) tracing experiments using mass spectrometry. Levels of protein expression of lactate converting enzymes, lactate importer and exporter in NP and AF tissues were quantified by Western blots. Effects of lactate on proteoglycan (35S-sulfate) and collagen (3H-proline) matrix protein synthesis and oxidative phosphorylation (Seahorse XFe96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer) in AF cells were assessed. Results Heavy-isotope tracing experiments revealed that AF cells imported and converted lactate into TCA cycle intermediates and amino acids using in vitro cell culture and in vivo models. Addition of exogenous lactate (4mM) in culture media induced expression of the lactate importer MCT1 and increased oxygen consumption rate by 50%, mitochondrial ATP-linked respiration by 30%, and collagen synthesis by 50% in AF cell cultures grown under physiologic oxygen (2-5% O2) and glucose concentration (1-5mM). AF tissue highly expresses MCT1, LDH-H, an enzyme that preferentially converts lactate to pyruvate, and PDH, an enzyme that converts pyruvate to acetyl-coA. In contrast, NP tissue highly expresses MCT4, a lactate exporter, and LDH-M, an enzyme that preferentially converts pyruvate to lactate. Conclusions These findings support disc lactate-dependent metabolic symbiosis in which lactate produced by the hypoxic, glycolytic NP cells is utilized by the more oxygenated AF cells via oxidative phosphorylation for energy and matrix production, thus shifting the current research paradigm of viewing disc lactate as a waste product to considering it as an important biofuel. These scientifically impactful results suggest novel therapeutic targets in disc metabolism and degeneration. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-021-02501-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Robert Hartman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.,University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Enterprises, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Chao Han
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.,Tianjin Hospital, 406 Jiefang South Road Hexi District, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Chao-Ming Zhou
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Brandon Couch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Matias Malkamaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Vera Roginskaya
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Bennett Van Houten
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Steven J Mullett
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.,Health Sciences Metabolomics and Lipidomics Core, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stacy G Wendell
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.,Health Sciences Metabolomics and Lipidomics Core, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael J Jurczak
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Center for Metabolism and Mitochondrial Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - James Kang
- Department of Orthopedics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Harvard University, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Joon Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Gwendolyn Sowa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA. .,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA.
| | - Nam Vo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
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Kim JW, Jeon N, Shin DE, Lee SY, Kim M, Han DH, Shin JY, Lee S. Regeneration in Spinal Disease: Therapeutic Role of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1 Alpha in Regeneration of Degenerative Intervertebral Disc. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105281. [PMID: 34067899 PMCID: PMC8155933 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a complex joint structure comprising three primary components—namely, nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF), and cartilaginous endplate (CEP). The IVD retrieves oxygen from the surrounding vertebral body through CEP by diffusion and likely generates ATP via anaerobic glycolysis. IVD degeneration is characterized by a cascade of cellular, compositional, structural changes. With advanced age, pronounced changes occur in the composition of the disc extracellular matrix (ECM). NP and AF cells in the IVD possess poor regenerative capacity compared with that of other tissues. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a master transcription factor that initiates a coordinated cellular cascade in response to a low oxygen tension environment, including the regulation of numerous enzymes in response to hypoxia. HIF-1α is essential for NP development and homeostasis and is involved in various processes of IVD degeneration process, promotes ECM in NP, maintains the metabolic activities of NP, and regulates dystrophic mineralization of NP, as well as angiogenesis, autophagy, and apoptosis during IVD degeneration. HIF-1α may, therefore, represent a diagnostic tool for early IVD degeneration and a therapeutic target for inhibiting IVD degeneration
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Woo Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul 01830, Korea; (J.-W.K.); (N.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Neunghan Jeon
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul 01830, Korea; (J.-W.K.); (N.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Dong-Eun Shin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Korea; (D.-E.S.); (D.H.H.)
| | - So-Young Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam-si 13488, Korea;
| | - Myongwhan Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul 01830, Korea; (J.-W.K.); (N.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Dong Hun Han
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Korea; (D.-E.S.); (D.H.H.)
| | - Jae Yeon Shin
- Department of Computer Science, College of IT Engineering, SeMyung University, Jechun 27136, Korea;
| | - Soonchul Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Korea; (D.-E.S.); (D.H.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-31-780-5289; Fax: +82-31-708-3578
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Che YJ, Hou JJ, Guo JB, Liang T, Zhang W, Lu Y, Yang HL, Hao YF, Luo ZP. Low energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy combined with low tension traction can better reshape the microenvironment in degenerated intervertebral disc regeneration and repair. Spine J 2021; 21:160-177. [PMID: 32800896 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2020.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-tension traction is more effective than high-tension traction in restoring the height and rehydration of a degenerated disc and to some extent the bony endplate. This might better reshape the microenvironment for disc regeneration and repair. However, the repair of the combination of endplate sclerosis, osteophyte formation, and even collapse leading to partial or nearly complete occlusion of the nutrient channel is greatly limited. PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) combined with low tension traction for regeneration and repair of moderately and severely degenerated discs; to explore the possible mechanism of action. STUDY DESIGN Animal study of a rat model of degenerated discs. METHODS A total of thirty-five 6-month old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to one of five groups (n=7, each group). In Group A (model group), caudal vertebrae were immobilized using a custom-made external device to fix four caudal vertebrae (Co7-Co10) whereas Co8-Co9 underwent 4 weeks of compression to induce moderate disc degeneration. In Group B (experimental control group), as in Group A, disc degeneration was successfully induced after which the fixed device was removed for 8 weeks of self-recovery. The remaining three groups of rats represented the intervention Groups (C-E): after successful generation of disc degeneration in Group C (com - 4w/tra - 4w) and Group D (com - 4w/ESWT), as described for group A, low-tension traction (in-situ traction) or low-energy ESWT was administered for 4 weeks (ESWT parameters: intensity: 0.15 Mpa; frequency: 1 Hz; impact: 1,000 each time; once/week, 4 times in total); Group E (com - 4w/tra - 4w/ESWT): disc degeneration as described for group A, low-tension traction combined with low-energy ESWT was conducted (ESWT parameters as Group D). After experimentation, caudal vertebrae were harvested and disc height, T2 signal intensity, disc morphology, total glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content, gene expression, structure of the Co8-Co9 bony endplates and elastic moduli of the discs were measured. RESULTS After continuous low-tension traction, low energy ESWT intervention or combined intervention, the degenerated discs effectively recovered their height and became rehydrated. However, the response in Group D was weaker than in the other intervention groups in terms of restoration of intervertebral disc (IVD) height, whereas Group E was superior in disc rehydration. Tissue regeneration was evident in Groups C to E using different interventions. No apparent tissue regeneration was observed in the experimental control group (Group B). The histological scores of the three intervention groups (Groups C-E) were lower than those of Groups A or B (p<.0001), and the scores of Groups C and E were significantly lower than those of Group D (p<.05), but not Group C versus Group E (p>.05). Compared with the intervention groups (Groups C-E), total GAG content of the nucleus pulposus (NP) in Group B did not increase significantly (p>.05). There was also no significant difference in the total GAG content between Groups A and B (p>.05). Of the three intervention groups, the recovery of NP GAG content was greatest in Group E. The expression of collagen I and II, and aggrecan in the annulus fibrosus (AF) was up-regulated (p<.05), whereas the expression of MMP-3, MMP-13, and ADAMTS-4 was down-regulated (p<.05). Of the groups, Group E displayed the greatest degree of regulation. The trend in regulation of gene expression in the NP was essentially consistent with that of the AF, of which Group E was the greatest. In the intervention groups (Groups C-E), compared with Group A, the pore structure of the bony endplate displayed clear changes. The number of pores in the endplate in Groups C to E was significantly higher than in Group A (p<.0001), among which Group C versus Group D (p=.9724), and Group C versus Group E (p=.0116). There was no significant difference between Groups A and B (p=.5261). In addition, the pore diameter also increased, the trend essentially the same as that of pore density. There was no significant difference between the three intervention groups (p=.7213). It is worth noting that, compared with Groups A and B, peripheral pore density and size in Groups D and E of the three intervention groups recovered significantly. The elastic modulus and diameter of collagen fibers in the AF and NP varied with the type of intervention. Low tension traction combined with ESWT resulted in the greatest impact on the diameter and modulus of collagen fibers. CONCLUSIONS Low energy ESWT combined with low tension traction provided a more stable intervertebral environment for the regeneration and repair of moderate and severe degenerative discs. Low energy ESWT promoted the regeneration of disc matrix by reducing MMP-3, MMP-13, and ADAMTS-4 resulting in inhibition of collagen degradation. Although axial traction promoted the recovery of height and rehydration of the IVD, combined with low energy ESWT, the micro-nano structure of the bony endplate underwent positive reconstruction, tension in the annulus of the AF and nuclear stress of the NP declined, and the biomechanical microenvironment required for IVD regeneration and repair was reshaped.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Jun Che
- Orthopaedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, 708 Renmin Rd, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215007, People's Republic of China; Department of Orthopedics, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Jun Hou
- Department of Geriatrics, Xinghu Hospital, SuZhou industrial park, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Bo Guo
- Orthopaedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, 708 Renmin Rd, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215007, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Liang
- Orthopaedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, 708 Renmin Rd, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215007, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Orthopaedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, 708 Renmin Rd, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215007, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Lin Yang
- Orthopaedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, 708 Renmin Rd, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215007, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Feng Hao
- Orthopedics and Sports medicine center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215000, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zong-Ping Luo
- Orthopaedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of SooChow University, 708 Renmin Rd, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215007, People's Republic of China.
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Exosomes Derived from Human Urine-Derived Stem Cells Inhibit Intervertebral Disc Degeneration by Ameliorating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:6697577. [PMID: 33488928 PMCID: PMC7787770 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6697577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study is aimed at determining the effects of human urine-derived stem cell-derived exosomes (USCs-exos) on pressure-induced nucleus pulposus cell (NPC) apoptosis and intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) and on the ERK and AKT signaling pathways. Methods The NPCs were obtained from patients with herniated lumbar discs. Western blot analysis (WB) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to determine endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress levels of NPCs under stress. Human USCs were identified using an inverted microscope, three-line differentiation experiments, and flow cytometry. A transmission microscope, nanoparticle size analysis, and WB procedures were used to identify the extracted exosomes and observe NPC uptake. A control group, a 48 h group, and a USCs-exos group were established. The control group was untreated, and the 48 h group was pressure-trained for 48 h, while the USCs-exos group was pressure-trained for 48 h and treated with USCs-exos. WB, qRT-PCR, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) analysis were used to determine the ER stress levels in stress conditions and after exosomal treatment. The AKT and ERK pathways were partially detected. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) were used to evaluate cell degeneration while exosomal effects on the intervertebral disc (IVD) tissue were determined by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, Safranin O-fast green staining, immunohistochemical staining (IHC), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), spectrometric detection, and total correlation spectroscopy (TOCSY). IVD metabolites were also identified and quantified. Results After pressure culture, ER stress markers (GRP78 and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP)) in the NPCs were significantly elevated with time (p < 0.05). Human USCs are short and spindle-shaped. They can successfully undergo osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic differentiation. In this study, these stem cells were found to be positive for CD29, CD44, and CD73. The exosomes were centrally located with a diameter of 50-100 nm. CD63 and Tsg101 were highly expressed while the expression of Calnexin was suppressed. The exosomes can be ingested by NPCs. USCs-exos significantly improved ER stress responses and inhibited excessive activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) as well as cell apoptosis and disc degeneration through the AKT and ERK signaling pathways (p < 0.05). Conclusion Through the AKT and ERK signaling pathways, USCs-exos significantly inhibit ER stress-induced cell apoptosis and IDD under pressure conditions. It is, therefore, a viable therapeutic strategy.
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Takeoka Y, Kang JD, Mizuno S. In vitro nucleus pulposus tissue model with physicochemical stresses. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1105. [PMID: 33015578 PMCID: PMC7524234 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral discs (IVDs) are exposed to changes in physicochemical stresses including hydrostatic and osmotic pressure via diurnal spinal motion. Homeostasis, degeneration, and regeneration in IVDs have been studied using in vitro, ex vivo, and animal models. However, incubation of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells in medium has limited capability to reproduce anabolic turnover and regeneration under physicochemical stresses. We developed a novel pressure/perfusion cell culture system and a semipermeable membrane pouch device for enclosing isolated NP cells for in vitro incubation under physicochemical stresses. We assessed the performance of this system to identify an appropriate stress loading regimen to promote gene expression and consistent accumulation of extracellular matrices by bovine caudal NP cells. Cyclic hydrostatic pressure (HP) for 4 days followed by constant HP for 3 days in high osmolality (HO; 450 mOsm/kg H2O) showed a trend towards upregulated aggrecan expression and dense accumulation of keratan sulfate without gaps by the NP cells. Furthermore, a repetitive regimen of cyclic HP for 2 days followed by constant HP for 1 day in HO (repeated twice) significantly upregulated gene expression of aggrecan (P < .05) compared to no pressure and suppressed matrix metalloproteinase-13 expression (P < .05) at 6 days. Our culture system and pouches will be useful to reproduce physicochemical stresses in NP cells for simulating anabolic, catabolic, and homeostatic turnover under diurnal spinal motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiki Takeoka
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryBrigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - James D. Kang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryBrigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Shuichi Mizuno
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryBrigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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