Intervertebral Disc Degeneration and Regeneration: New Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutics

Cells, 2024 · DOI: 10.3390/cells13020153 · Published: January 15, 2024

Regenerative Medicine Genetics Orthopedics

Simple Explanation

The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a soft tissue that constitutes the spinal column together with the vertebrae, and consists of the central nucleus pulposus (gelatinous tissue) and the annulus fibrosus (rich in fibrous tissue) that surrounds the nucleus pulposus. The increasing incidence of IVD degeneration with age and its correlation with lower back pain, IVD herniation, and spinal canal stenosis is a remarkable trend in contemporary society. This Special Issue aimed to report the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms of degeneration and regeneration of the IVD for new treatment strategies.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Human nucleus pulposus cells, rabbit and rat degenerated IVD models, and human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

Evidence Level

Review of articles and research on cellular and animal models

Key Findings

1
Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) intervention may protect against IVD degeneration via mir-107/Wnt3a-β-catenin signaling.
2
The tissue renin–angiotensin system is associated with inflammatory and degenerative processes in human nucleus pulposus cells.
3
Ferroptosis, characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, has been implicated in the pathological cell death associated with degenerative diseases and may be a target for treating IVD degeneration.

Research Summary

This editorial summarizes a special issue focused on the molecular mechanisms of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and regeneration, highlighting new treatment strategies. The issue includes six papers (four articles and two reviews) covering topics such as the effects of hyperbaric oxygen, the role of the renin-angiotensin system, the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells, and the potential of targeting ferroptosis. The articles presented in this Special Issue provide readers with the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms of degeneration and regeneration of the IVD for new treatment strategies.

Practical Implications

Novel Treatment Strategies

The research provides insights into new molecular targets for treating IVD degeneration, such as mir-107/Wnt3a-β-catenin signaling and ferroptosis.

Regenerative Therapies

Mesenchymal stem cells and scaffolds can be used to regenerate intervertebral disc cells, providing a basis for regenerative therapies.

Pain Management

Injection of ultra-purified stem cells with sodium alginate may reduce discogenic pain, offering a potential alternative to surgical treatments.

Study Limitations

1
Limited regeneration capacity of IVDs due to scarce viable cells and poor nutritional supply.
2
Current surgical treatments do not address the underlying causes of IVD degeneration.
3
Further research is needed to fully understand the molecular mechanisms of IVD degeneration and regeneration.

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