A Novel Target Biomarker could be Galectin-3 for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration?

Abstract

The process of disc degeneration represents an abnormal, cell-mediated response leading to progressive structural failure. A degenerated disc is one with structural breakdown accelerated or accompanied by signs of advanced aging. It tends to exhibit degenerative and aging changes earlier than other connective tissues in the body. Given the relationship between back pain and disc degeneration, it\'s considered clinically significant. The roles of Galectin-3 in brain development, within glial cells, and their interaction with other neural and invading cells in pathological conditions have been observed. Successful nerve regeneration via functional repair involves both internal and external factors such as neurons\' ability to rebuild axons, support for axonal growth, and accessible target tissues for re-innervation. The study evaluated the role of Galectin protein in tissue regeneration and its potential as a diagnostic marker in Lumbar Herniated Disc degeneration. It was conducted on a total of 50 individuals, including 29 LD trauma cases and 21 healthy subjects, at the Brain Surgery Clinic. Assessing the expression of two molecules in Lumbar disc degeneration, no significant difference was found in resistin levels between groups (p=0.853), whereas Galectin levels were significantly different between the Control and LD (Lumbar disc) groups (p<0.001). Galectin protein secretion was found to be higher in the LD group compared to the control group. Early assessment of Galectin protein could p