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Ambrosio L, Schol J, Ruiz-Fernández C, Tamagawa S, Joyce K, Nomura A, de Rinaldis E, Sakai D, Papalia R, Vadalà G, Denaro V. Getting to the Core: Exploring the Embryonic Development from Notochord to Nucleus Pulposus. J Dev Biol 2024; 12:18. [PMID: 39051200 PMCID: PMC11270426 DOI: 10.3390/jdb12030018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is the largest avascular organ of the human body and plays a fundamental role in providing the spine with its unique structural and biomechanical functions. The inner part of the IVD contains the nucleus pulposus (NP), a gel-like tissue characterized by a high content of type II collagen and proteoglycans, which is crucial for the disc's load-bearing and shock-absorbing properties. With aging and IVD degeneration (IDD), the NP gradually loses its physiological characteristics, leading to low back pain and additional sequelae. In contrast to surrounding spinal tissues, the NP presents a distinctive embryonic development since it directly derives from the notochord. This review aims to explore the embryology of the NP, emphasizing the pivotal roles of key transcription factors, which guide the differentiation and maintenance of the NP cellular components from the notochord and surrounding sclerotome. Through an understanding of NP development, we sought to investigate the implications of the critical developmental aspects in IVD-related pathologies, such as IDD and the rare malignant chordomas. Moreover, this review discusses the therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways, including the novel regenerative approaches leveraging insights from NP development and embryology to potentially guide future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Ambrosio
- Operative Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (R.P.); (V.D.)
- Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 01128 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara 259-1143, Japan; (J.S.); (C.R.-F.); (A.N.); (D.S.)
| | - Jordy Schol
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara 259-1143, Japan; (J.S.); (C.R.-F.); (A.N.); (D.S.)
| | - Clara Ruiz-Fernández
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara 259-1143, Japan; (J.S.); (C.R.-F.); (A.N.); (D.S.)
| | - Shota Tamagawa
- Department of Medicine for Orthopaedics and Motor Organ, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan;
| | - Kieran Joyce
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, H91 W2TY Galway, Ireland;
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, H91 W2TY Galway, Ireland
| | - Akira Nomura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara 259-1143, Japan; (J.S.); (C.R.-F.); (A.N.); (D.S.)
| | - Elisabetta de Rinaldis
- Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 01128 Rome, Italy;
| | - Daisuke Sakai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara 259-1143, Japan; (J.S.); (C.R.-F.); (A.N.); (D.S.)
| | - Rocco Papalia
- Operative Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (R.P.); (V.D.)
- Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 01128 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gianluca Vadalà
- Operative Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (R.P.); (V.D.)
- Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 01128 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Denaro
- Operative Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (R.P.); (V.D.)
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Lin P, Gan YB, He J, Lin SE, Xu JK, Chang L, Zhao LM, Zhu J, Zhang L, Huang S, Hu O, Wang YB, Jin HJ, Li YY, Yan PL, Chen L, Jiang JX, Liu P. Advancing skeletal health and disease research with single-cell RNA sequencing. Mil Med Res 2024; 11:33. [PMID: 38816888 PMCID: PMC11138034 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-024-00538-3] [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: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Orthopedic conditions have emerged as global health concerns, impacting approximately 1.7 billion individuals worldwide. However, the limited understanding of the underlying pathological processes at the cellular and molecular level has hindered the development of comprehensive treatment options for these disorders. The advent of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has revolutionized biomedical research by enabling detailed examination of cellular and molecular diversity. Nevertheless, investigating mechanisms at the single-cell level in highly mineralized skeletal tissue poses technical challenges. In this comprehensive review, we present a streamlined approach to obtaining high-quality single cells from skeletal tissue and provide an overview of existing scRNA-seq technologies employed in skeletal studies along with practical bioinformatic analysis pipelines. By utilizing these methodologies, crucial insights into the developmental dynamics, maintenance of homeostasis, and pathological processes involved in spine, joint, bone, muscle, and tendon disorders have been uncovered. Specifically focusing on the joint diseases of degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis using scRNA-seq has provided novel insights and a more nuanced comprehension. These findings have paved the way for discovering novel therapeutic targets that offer potential benefits to patients suffering from diverse skeletal disorders.
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Grants
- 2022YFA1103202 National Key Research and Development Program of China
- 82272507 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 32270887 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 32200654 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- CSTB2023NSCQ-ZDJO008 Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing
- BX20220397 Postdoctoral Innovative Talent Support Program
- SFLKF202201 Independent Research Project of State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning
- 2021-XZYG-B10 General Hospital of Western Theater Command Research Project
- 14113723 University Grants Committee, Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, China
- N_CUHK472/22 University Grants Committee, Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, China
- C7030-18G University Grants Committee, Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, China
- T13-402/17-N University Grants Committee, Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, China
- AoE/M-402/20 University Grants Committee, Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, China
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Lin
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yi-Bo Gan
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Jian He
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- Pancreatic Injury and Repair Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, the General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Si-En Lin
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Jian-Kun Xu
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Liang Chang
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Li-Ming Zhao
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Sha Huang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Ou Hu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Ying-Bo Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Huai-Jian Jin
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yang-Yang Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Pu-Lin Yan
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Laboratory for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Military Training Related Injuries, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Jian-Xin Jiang
- Wound Trauma Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center of Orthopedics, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
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Wang P, Li Z, Ye D. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis reveals the Wnt/Ca 2+ signaling pathway with inflammation, apoptosis in nucleus pulposus degeneration. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:321. [PMID: 38654287 PMCID: PMC11036596 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07368-3] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing studies have shown degeneration of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) as an critical part of the progression of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). However, there are relatively few studies on single-cell transcriptome contrasts in human degenerated NPCs. Moreover, differences in Wnt/Ca2+ signaling in human degenerated nucleus pulposus cells have not been elucidated. The aim of this study is to investigate the differential expression of Wnt/Ca2+ signaling pathway between normal and degenerated nucleus pulposus cells in humans and try to investigate its mechanism. METHODS We performed bioinformatics analysis using our previously published findings to construct single cell expression profiles of normal and degenerated nucleus pulposus. Then, in-depth differential analysis was used to characterize the expression of Wnt/Ca2+ signaling pathway between normal and degenerated nucleus pulposus cells in humans. RESULTS The obtained cell data were clustered into five different chondrocytes clusters, which chondrocyte 4 and chondrocyte 5 mainly accounted for a high proportion in degenerated nucleus pulposus tissues, but rarely in normal nucleus pulposus tissues. Genes associated within the Wnt/Ca2+ signaling pathway, such as Wnt5B, FZD1, PLC (PLCB1), CaN (PPP3CA) and NAFATC1 are mainly present in chondrocyte 3, chondrocyte 4 and chondrocyte 5 from degenerated nucleus pulposus tissues. In addition, as a receptor that activates Wnt signaling pathway, LRP5 is mainly highly expressed in chondrocyte 5 of degenerated nucleus pulposus cells. Six genes, ANGPTL4, PTGES, IGFBP3, GDF15, TRIB3 and TNFRSF10B, which are associated with apoptosis and inflammatory responses, and are widespread in chondrocyte 4 and chondrocyte 5, may be closely related to degenerative of nucleus pulposus cells. CONCLUSIONS Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed differential expression of Wnt/Ca2+ signaling in human normal and degenerated nucleus pulposus cells, and this differential expression may be closely related to the abundance of chondrocyte 4 and chondrocyte 5 in degenerated nucleus pulposus cells. In degenerated nucleus pulposus cells, LRP5 activate Wnt5B, which promotes nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis and inflammatory response by regulating the Wnt/Ca2+ signaling pathway, thereby promoting disc degeneration. ANGPTL4, IGFBP3, PTGES in chondrocyte 4 and TRIB3, GDF15, TNFRSF10B in chondrocyte 5 may play an important role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peigeng Wang
- Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital, Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510220, China
- Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, 550025, China
| | - Zhencong Li
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, 524001, China
| | - Dongping Ye
- Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital, Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510220, China.
- Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, 550025, China.
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Luo J, Jin G, Cui S, Wang H, Liu Q. Regulatory mechanism of FCGR2A in macrophage polarization and its effects on intervertebral disc degeneration. J Physiol 2024; 602:1341-1369. [PMID: 38544414 DOI: 10.1113/jp285871] [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: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) poses a significant health burden, necessitating a deeper understanding of its molecular underpinnings. Transcriptomic analysis reveals 485 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with IDD, underscoring the importance of immune regulation. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identifies a yellow module strongly correlated with IDD, intersecting with 197 DEGs. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis identifies ITGAX, MMP9 and FCGR2A as hub genes, predominantly expressed in macrophages. Functional validation through in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrates the pivotal role of FCGR2A in macrophage polarization and IDD progression. Mechanistically, FCGR2A knockdown suppresses M1 macrophage polarization and NF-κB phosphorylation while enhancing M2 polarization and STAT3 activation, leading to ameliorated IDD in animal models. This study sheds light on the regulatory function of FCGR2A in macrophage polarization, offering novel insights for IDD intervention strategies. KEY POINTS: This study unveils the role of FCGR2A in intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD). FCGR2A knockdown mitigates IDD in cellular and animal models. Single-cell RNA-sequencing uncovers diverse macrophage subpopulations in degenerated IVDs. This study reveals the molecular mechanism of FCGR2A in regulating macrophage polarization. This study confirms the role of the NF-κB/STAT3 pathway in regulating macrophage polarization in IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Luo
- School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceuticals, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Guoxin Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Shaoqian Cui
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P. R. China
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Li Z, Zhang W, Huang S, Dai Z, Liang J, Qiu Q, Chen S, Guo W, Wang Z, Wei J. Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate(PHBV)-Polyethylene glycol 20k(PEG20k) as a promising delivery system for PT2399 in the treatment of disc degeneration. J Biol Eng 2024; 18:11. [PMID: 38254196 PMCID: PMC10804636 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-024-00407-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Disc degeneration often leads to a highly prevalent symptom known as low back pain. Healthy nucleus pulposus tissue exhibited a hypoxic environment devoid of blood vessels, while degenerated nucleus pulposus experienced hypoxic deterioration and the formation of new blood vessels. In this study, the expression of important genes like HIF-2α was found to vary between normal and degenerated nucleus pulposus cells when compared to the hypoxic surroundings. The aim of this study was to examine how HIF-2α is controlled in nucleus pulposus cells under hypoxic conditions and its role in angiogenic mechanisms. To assess the impact of gradual inhibition of HIF-2α on disc degeneration, we utilized PHBV-based synthetic materials loaded with inhibitors of HIF-2α. Specifically, we employed LPS and PT2399 loaded PHBV-PEG20k (PP20) to intervene with human nucleus pulposus cells. Additionally, we treated APD rat models with PT2399 loaded PP20 to evaluate its effects. The expression levels of target markers in nucleus pulposus cells were detected using PCR, WB, and immunofluorescence. Additionally, the effect of drugs on disc degeneration was identified through HE staining. The findings indicated that HIF-2α, CAIX, PPP1R15A, VEGFA, and EGLN3 could potentially serve as new indicators of disc degeneration. Additionally, HIF-2α might contribute to the progression of disc degeneration through involvement in angiogenesis and the regulation of hypoxia. Furthermore, the utilization of PT2399 loaded PHBV-PEG20k (PP20) could potentially offer a fresh alternative for treating disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhencong Li
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
| | - Weilin Zhang
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
| | - Shengbang Huang
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
| | - Zhiwen Dai
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
| | - Jinguo Liang
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
| | - Qiulan Qiu
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Siyuan Chen
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
| | - Weixiong Guo
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
| | - Zhongwei Wang
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
| | - Jinsong Wei
- Department of Spinal Degeneration and Deformity Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China.
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Chen F, Lei L, Chen S, Zhao Z, Huang Y, Jiang G, Guo X, Li Z, Zheng Z, Wang J. Serglycin secreted by late-stage nucleus pulposus cells is a biomarker of intervertebral disc degeneration. Nat Commun 2024; 15:47. [PMID: 38167807 PMCID: PMC10761730 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44313-9] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration is a natural process during aging and a leading cause of lower back pain. Here, we generate a comprehensive atlas of nucleus pulposus cells using single-cell RNA-seq analysis of human nucleus pulposus tissues (three males and four females, age 41.14 ± 18.01 years). We identify fibrotic late-stage nucleus pulposus cells characterized by upregulation of serglycin expression which facilitate the local inflammatory response by promoting the infiltration of inflammatory cytokines and macrophages. Finally, we discover that daphnetin, a potential serglycin ligand, substantially mitigates the local inflammatory response by downregulating serglycin expression in an in vivo mouse model, thus alleviating intervertebral disc degeneration. Taken together, we identify late-stage nucleus pulposus cells and confirm the potential mechanism by which serglycin regulates intervertebral disc degeneration. Our findings indicate that serglycin is a latent biomarker of intervertebral disc degeneration and may contribute to development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Laboratory of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Linchuan Lei
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Laboratory of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shunlun Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Zhuoyang Zhao
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Laboratory of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yuming Huang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Guowei Jiang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Laboratory of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xingyu Guo
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Zemin Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Zhaomin Zheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China.
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China.
| | - Jianru Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China.
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, 510080, P.R. China.
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7
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Baldwin M, Buckley CD, Guilak F, Hulley P, Cribbs AP, Snelling S. A roadmap for delivering a human musculoskeletal cell atlas. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2023; 19:738-752. [PMID: 37798481 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-023-01031-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Advances in single-cell technologies have transformed the ability to identify the individual cell types present within tissues and organs. The musculoskeletal bionetwork, part of the wider Human Cell Atlas project, aims to create a detailed map of the healthy musculoskeletal system at a single-cell resolution throughout tissue development and across the human lifespan, with complementary generation of data from diseased tissues. Given the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, this detailed reference dataset will be critical to understanding normal musculoskeletal function in growth, homeostasis and ageing. The endeavour will also help to identify the cellular basis for disease and lay the foundations for novel therapeutic approaches to treating diseases of the joints, soft tissues and bone. Here, we present a Roadmap delineating the critical steps required to construct the first draft of a human musculoskeletal cell atlas. We describe the key challenges involved in mapping the extracellular matrix-rich, but cell-poor, tissues of the musculoskeletal system, outline early milestones that have been achieved and describe the vision and directions for a comprehensive musculoskeletal cell atlas. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, integrating diverse datasets and fostering international collaborations, this endeavour has the potential to drive transformative changes in musculoskeletal medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew Baldwin
- The Botnar Institute for Musculoskeletal Sciences, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher D Buckley
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Farshid Guilak
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Philippa Hulley
- The Botnar Institute for Musculoskeletal Sciences, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Adam P Cribbs
- The Botnar Institute for Musculoskeletal Sciences, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah Snelling
- The Botnar Institute for Musculoskeletal Sciences, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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8
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Zhao Y, Mu Y, Zou Y, Lei X, Ji R, Wei B, Wei T, Lu T, He Z, Wang X, Li W, Gao B. Integrated analysis of single-cell transcriptome and structural biology approach reveals the dynamics changes of NP subtypes and roles of Menaquinone in attenuating intervertebral disc degeneration. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-24. [PMID: 37902557 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2275172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a progressive and chronic disease, the mechanisms have been studied extensively as a whole, while the cellular heterogeneity of cells in nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues remained controversial for a long time. This study conducted integrated analysis through single-cell sequencing analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and differential expression analysis, to systematically decipher the longitudinal alterations of distinct NP subtypes, and also analyzed the most essential genes in the development of IDD. Then, this study further conducted structural biology method to discover the potential lead compounds through a suite of advanced approaches like high-throughput screening (HTVS), pharmaceutical characteristics assessment, CDOCKER module as well as molecular dynamics simulation, etc., aiming to ameliorate the progression of IDD. Totally 5 NP subpopulations were identified with distinct biological functions based on their unique gene expression patterns. The predominant dynamics changes mainly involved RegNPs and EffNPs, the RegNPs were mainly aggregated in normal NP tissues and drastically decreased in degenerative NP, while EffNPs, as pathogenic subtype, exhibited opposite phenomenon. Importantly, this study further reported the essential roles of Menaquinone in alleviating degenerative NP cells for the first time, which could provide solid evidence for the application of nutritional therapy in the treatment of IDD. This study combined scRNA-seq, bulk-RNA seq and HTVS techniques to systematically decipher the longitudinal changes of NP subtypes during IDD. EffNPs were considered to be 'chief culprit' in IDD progression, while the novel natural drug Menaquinone could reverse this phenomenon.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjing Zhao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuxue Mu
- Aerospace Clinical Medical Center, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yujia Zou
- China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin, China
- Department of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Lei
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Rui Ji
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bingqian Wei
- Basic Medical College, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tianyu Wei
- Basic Medical College, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tianxing Lu
- Zonglian College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhijian He
- Department of Sports Teaching and Research, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xinhui Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College, Xinxiang, China
| | - Weihang Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bo Gao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Di J, Chen Z, Wang Z, He T, Wu D, Weng C, Deng J, Mai L, Wang K, He L, Rong L. Cartilage tissue from sites of weight bearing in patients with osteoarthritis exhibits a differential phenotype with distinct chondrocytes subests. RMD Open 2023; 9:e003255. [PMID: 37848267 PMCID: PMC10582868 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003255] [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: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease associated with excessive mechanical loading. The aim here was to elucidate whether different subpopulations of chondrocytes exhibit distinct phenotypes in response to variations in loading conditions. Furthermore, we seek to investigate the transcriptional switches and cell crosstalk among these chondrocytes subsets. METHODS Proteomic analysis was performed on cartilage tissues isolated from weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing regions. Additionally, single-cell RNA sequencing was employed to identify different subsets of chondrocytes. For disease-specific cells, in vitro differentiation induction was performed, and their presence was confirmed in human cartilage tissue sections using immunofluorescence. The molecular mechanisms underlying transcriptional changes in these cells were analysed through whole-transcriptome sequencing. RESULTS In the weight-bearing regions of OA cartilage tissue, a subpopulation of chondrocytes called OA hypertrophic chondrocytes (OAHCs) expressing the marker genes SLC39A14 and COL10A1 are present. These cells exhibit unique characteristics of active cellular interactions mediated by the TGFβ signalling pathway and express OA phenotypes, distinct from hypertrophic chondrocytes in healthy cartilage. OAHCs are mainly distributed in the superficial region of damaged cartilage in human OA tissue, and on TGFβ stimulation, exhibit activation of transcriptional expression of iron metabolism-related genes, along with enrichment of associated pathways. CONCLUSION This study identified and validated the existence of a subset of OAHCs in the weight-bearing area of OA cartilage tissue. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for targeting OAHCs to slow down the progression of OA and facilitate the repair of cartilage injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Di
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zihao Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianwei He
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Depeng Wu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chuanggui Weng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiajun Deng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lang Mai
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lei He
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Limin Rong
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Engineering and Technology Research of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Quality Control of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Du X, Liang K, Ding S, Shi H. Signaling Mechanisms of Stem Cell Therapy for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2467. [PMID: 37760908 PMCID: PMC10525468 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the primary clinical risk factor for low back pain and the pathological cause of disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and spinal deformity. A possible approach to improve the clinical practice of IDD-related diseases is to incorporate biomarkers in diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and prognosis prediction. IDD pathology is still unclear. Regarding molecular mechanisms, cellular signaling pathways constitute a complex network of signaling pathways that coordinate cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, and metabolism. Recently, stem cells have shown great potential in clinical applications for IDD. In this review, the roles of multiple signaling pathways and related stem cell treatment in IDD are summarized and described. This review seeks to investigate the mechanisms and potential therapeutic effects of stem cells in IDD and identify new therapeutic treatments for IDD-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Haifei Shi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (X.D.); (K.L.); (S.D.)
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11
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Wang Y, Cheng H, Wang T, Zhang K, Zhang Y, Kang X. Oxidative stress in intervertebral disc degeneration: Molecular mechanisms, pathogenesis and treatment. Cell Prolif 2023; 56:e13448. [PMID: 36915968 PMCID: PMC10472537 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of labour loss and disability worldwide, and it also imposes a severe economic burden on patients and society. Among symptomatic LBP, approximately 40% is caused by intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). IDD is the pathological basis of many spinal degenerative diseases such as disc herniation and spinal stenosis. Currently, the therapeutic approaches for IDD mainly include conservative treatment and surgical treatment, neither of which can solve the problem from the root by terminating the degenerative process of the intervertebral disc (IVD). Therefore, further exploring the pathogenic mechanisms of IDD and adopting targeted therapeutic strategies is one of the current research hotspots. Among the complex pathophysiological processes and pathogenic mechanisms of IDD, oxidative stress is considered as the main pathogenic factor. The delicate balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants is essential for maintaining the normal function and survival of IVD cells. Excessive ROS levels can cause damage to macromolecules such as nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins of cells, affect normal cellular activities and functions, and ultimately lead to cell senescence or death. This review discusses the potential role of oxidative stress in IDD to further understand the pathophysiological processes and pathogenic mechanisms of IDD and provides potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidian Wang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Honghui HospitalXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Huiguang Cheng
- Department of Joint Surgery, Honghui HospitalXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Honghui HospitalXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Kun Zhang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Honghui HospitalXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Honghui HospitalXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Xin Kang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Honghui HospitalXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
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12
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Lu Z, Zheng Z. Integrated analysis of single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing data identifies the characteristics of ferroptosis in lumbar disc herniation. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:289. [PMID: 37653201 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01216-8] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is the most common condition associated with low back pain, and it adversely impacts individuals' health. Ferroptosis has recently emerged as a novel factor in the pathogenesis of LDH; however, the specific impacts of ferroptosis on LDH have not been fully elucidated. Ferroptosis-related differentially expressed genes (FRDEGs) were identified from the transcriptomic datasets of LDH. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was conducted to identify biological mechanism and related pathways. LASSO and SVM-RFE algorithms were applied to detect signature genes. Function of the signature gene was confirmed by RT-qPCR. The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to compare immune infiltration between LDH and normal samples. Correlation analysis between MYB and immune cells was analyzed using the Pearson method. Additionally, we used scRNA-seq to dissect cell clusters and cellular interactions. AUCell scoring was used to analyze the ferroptosis scores of different cell types. We found that MYB, a highly expressed ferroptosis-related gene, was associated with LDH By leveraging bioinformatics analysis. In immune infiltration analysis, the abundance of monocytes and macrophages varied significantly between the LDH group and disc spondylolisthesis (DS) group. MYB was correlated with most immune cells. GSEA revealed MYB was significantly enriched in immune-related pathways. Furthermore, scRNA-seq analysis revealed the presence of eight distinct cell types. AUCell analysis showed that macrophages had a high ferroptosis score. Cell trajectory analysis revealed that chondrocyte 1 was at the beginning of the trajectory, while calcification inhibiting chondrocytes and fibrochondrocytes accumulated along the middle and tail end of the trajectory, respectively. Cell-cell communication analysis identified chondrocyte 1 had an extensive communication network with other clusters and interacted with nucleus pulposus through collagen signaling pathway. Our analysis demonstrated that MYB may be a potential therapeutic target for LDH. This study provides a resource for the orthopedics community that will facilitate additional discoveries directedly toward understanding the pathogenesis process of LDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqiang Lu
- Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital Of Henan Province, Luoyang, Henan, China.
| | - Zhenyu Zheng
- Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital Of Henan Province, Luoyang, Henan, China
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13
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Murphy K, Lufkin T, Kraus P. Development and Degeneration of the Intervertebral Disc-Insights from Across Species. Vet Sci 2023; 10:540. [PMID: 37756062 PMCID: PMC10534844 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10090540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Back pain caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration has a major socio-economic impact in humans, yet historically has received minimal attention in species other than humans, mice and dogs. However, a general growing interest in this unique organ prompted the expansion of IVD research in rats, rabbits, cats, horses, monkeys, and cows, further illuminating the complex nature of the organ in both healthy and degenerative states. Application of recent biotechnological advancements, including single cell RNA sequencing and complex data analysis methods has begun to explain the shifting inflammatory signaling, variation in cellular subpopulations, differential gene expression, mechanical loading, and metabolic stresses which contribute to age and stress related degeneration of the IVD. This increase in IVD research across species introduces a need for chronicling IVD advancements and tissue biomarkers both within and between species. Here we provide a comprehensive review of recent single cell RNA sequencing data alongside existing case reports and histo/morphological data to highlight the cellular complexity and metabolic challenges of this unique organ that is of structural importance for all vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Lufkin
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA;
| | - Petra Kraus
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA;
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14
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Ohnishi T, Tran V, Sao K, Ramteke P, Querido W, Barve RA, van de Wetering K, Risbud MV. Loss of function mutation in Ank causes aberrant mineralization and acquisition of osteoblast-like-phenotype by the cells of the intervertebral disc. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:447. [PMID: 37468461 PMCID: PMC10356955 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05893-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Pathological mineralization of intervertebral disc is debilitating and painful and linked to disc degeneration in a subset of human patients. An adenosine triphosphate efflux transporter, progressive ankylosis (ANK) is a regulator of extracellular inorganic pyrophosphate levels and plays an important role in tissue mineralization. However, the function of ANK in intervertebral disc has not been fully explored. Herein we analyzed the spinal phenotype of Ank mutant mice (ank/ank) with attenuated ANK function. Micro-computed tomography and histological analysis showed that loss of ANK function results in the aberrant annulus fibrosus mineralization and peripheral disc fusions with cranial to caudal progression in the spine. Vertebrae in ank mice exhibit elevated cortical bone mass and increased tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase-positive endplate chondrocytes with decreased subchondral endplate porosity. The acellular dystrophic mineral inclusions in the annulus fibrosus were localized adjacent to apoptotic cells and cells that acquired osteoblast-like phenotype. Fourier transform infrared spectral imaging showed that the apatite mineral in the outer annulus fibrosus had similar chemical composition to that of vertebral bone. Transcriptomic analysis of annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus tissues showed changes in several biological themes with a prominent dysregulation of BMAL1/CLOCK circadian regulation. The present study provides new insights into the role of ANK in the disc tissue compartments and highlights the importance of local inorganic pyrophosphate metabolism in inhibiting the mineralization of this important connective tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ohnishi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Victoria Tran
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Kimheak Sao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Pranay Ramteke
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - William Querido
- Department of Bioengineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Ruteja A Barve
- Department of Genetics, Genome Technology Access Centre at the McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Koen van de Wetering
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and PXE International Center of Excellence in Research and Clinical Care, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Makarand V Risbud
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
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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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Zhao YD, Huang YC, Lin JL, Li WS. Intervertebral Disc Progenitors: Lessons Learned from Single-Cell RNA Sequencing and the Role in Intervertebral Disc Regeneration. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:713. [PMID: 37370644 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10060713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The tremendous personal and economic burden worldwide caused by low back pain (LBP) has been surging in recent years. While intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is the leading cause of LBP and vast efforts have been made to develop effective therapies, this problem is far from being resolved, as most treatments, such as painkillers and surgeries, mainly focus on relieving the symptoms rather than reversing the cause of IVDD. However, as stem/progenitor cells possess the potential to regenerate IVD, a deeper understanding of the early development and role of these cells could help to improve the effectiveness of stem/progenitor cell therapy in treating LBP. Single-cell RNA sequencing results provide fresh insights into the heterogeneity and development patterns of IVD progenitors; additionally, we compare mesenchymal stromal cells and IVD progenitors to provide a clearer view of the optimal cell source proposed for IVD regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Dong Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yong-Can Huang
- Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Orthopaedic Regenerative Technologies, Department of Spine Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China
| | - Jia-Liang Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wei-Shi Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing 100191, China
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Yang X, Lu Y, Zhou H, Jiang HT, Chu L. Integrated proteome sequencing, bulk RNA sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing to identify potential biomarkers in different grades of intervertebral disc degeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1136777. [PMID: 37009470 PMCID: PMC10061025 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1136777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent health problem worldwide that affects over 80% of adults during their lifetime. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a well-recognized leading cause of LBP. IDD is classified into five grades according to the Pfirrmann classification system. The purpose of this study was to identify potential biomarkers in different IDD grades through an integrated analysis of proteome sequencing (PRO-seq), bulk RNA sequencing (bRNA-seq) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. Eight cases of grade I-IV IDD were obtained. Grades I and II were considered non-degenerative discs (relatively normal), whereas grades III and IV were considered degenerative discs. PRO-seq analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in various IDD grades. Variation analysis was performed on bRNA-seq data to differentiate expressed genes (DEGs) in normal and degenerated discs. In addition, scRNA-seq was performed to validate DEGs in degenerated and non-degenerated nucleus pulposus (NP). Machine learning (ML) algorithms were used to screen hub genes. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to validate the efficiency of the screened hub genes to predict IDD. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to analyze function enrichment and signaling pathways. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was used to prioritize disease-related proteins. SERPINA1, ORM2, FGG and COL1A1 were identified through PRO-seq as the hub proteins involved in regulating IDD. ML algorithms selected ten hub genes, including IBSP, COL6A2, MMP2, SERPINA1, ACAN, FBLN7, LAMB2, TTLL7, COL9A3, and THBS4 in bRNA-seq. Since serine protease inhibitor clade A member 1 (SERPINA1) was the only common gene, its accuracy in degenerated and non-degenerated NP cells was validated using scRNA-seq. Then, the rat degeneration model of caudal vertebra was established. The expression of SERPINA1 and ORM2 was detected using immunohistochemical staining of human and rat intervertebral discs. The results showed that SERPINA1 was poorly expressed in the degenerative group. We further explored the potential function of SERPINA1 by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and cell-cell communication. Therefore, SERPINA1 can be used as a biomarker to regulate or predict the progress of disc degeneration.
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Specific PFKFB3 Inhibitor Memorably Ameliorates Intervertebral Disc Degeneration via Inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathway and Reprogramming of Energy Metabolism of Nucleus Pulposus Cells. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7548145. [PMID: 36187335 PMCID: PMC9519352 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7548145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IVDD) is a characteristic of the dominating pathological processes of nucleus pulposus (NP) cell senescence, abnormal synthesis and irregular distribution of extracellular matrix (ECM), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induced inflammation. Nowadays, IVD acid environment variation which accelerates the pathological processes mentioned above arouses researchers' attention. KAN0438757 (KAN) is an effective inhibitor of selective metabolic kinase phosphofructokinase-2/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) that has both energy metabolism reprogramming and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, a potential therapeutic benefit of KAN lies in its ability to inhibit the development of IVDD. This study examined in vitro KAN toxicity in NP primary cells (NPPs). Moreover, KAN influenced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induced ECM anabolism and catabolism; the inflammatory signaling pathway activation and the energy metabolism phenotype were also examined in NPPs. Furthermore, KAN's therapeutic effect was investigated in vivo using the rat tail disc puncture model. Phenotypically speaking, the KAN treatment partially rescued the ECM degradation and glycolysis energy metabolism phenotypes of NPPs induced by TNF-α. In terms of mechanism, KAN inhibited the activation of MAPK and NF-κB inflammatory signaling pathways induced by TNF-α and reprogramed the energy metabolism. For the therapeutic aspect, the rat tail disc puncture model demonstrated that KAN has a significant ameliorated effect on the progression of IVDD. To sum up, our research successfully authenticated the potential therapeutic effect of KAN on IVDD and declaimed its mechanisms of both novel energy metabolism reprogramming and conventional anti-inflammation effect.
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