Abstract
IntroductionLoss of intervertebral disc (IVD) matrix and ultimately disc height as a result of 'degeneration' has been implicated as a major cause of low back pain (LBP). The use of anabolic growth factors as therapies to regenerate IVD matrix, hence restoring disc height and thus reversing degenerative disc disease, has been suggested. Cartilage-derived morphogenetic protein (CDMP) is a growth factor which stimulates proteoglycan production in chondrocyte-like cells and thus could be a useful growth factor for LBP therapies. However, little is known about the expression of CDMP or its receptor in human IVD, nor its effects on human disc cells.MethodsUsing immunohistochemistry we investigated the localisation of CDMP in non-degenerate and degenerate human IVDs. Additionally, we investigated the effect of CDMP on aggrecan and type II collagen gene expression and proteoglycan synthesis in nucleus pulposus (NP) cells derived from degenerate IVDs.ResultsWe demonstrated that CDMP 1 and 2 were expressed in the non-degenerate and degenerate IVD, particularly in cells of the NP. A small decrease in the number of CDMP 1 and 2 immunopositive cells was seen with degeneration. Treatment of human NP cells, (derived from degenerate IVD), with CDMP showed an increase in aggrecan and type II collagen gene expression and increased production of proteoglycan (GAGs).ConclusionsThe data suggests that CDMP may be a useful growth factor to stimulate proteoglycan production in the human degenerate IVD and hence the repair of the extracellular matrix.
Highlights
Loss of intervertebral disc (IVD) matrix and disc height as a result of 'degeneration' has been implicated as a major cause of low back pain (LBP)
The data suggests that Cartilage-derived morphogenetic protein (CDMP) may be a useful growth factor to stimulate proteoglycan production in the human degenerate IVD and the repair of the extracellular matrix
A greater proportion of cells were immunopositive for CDMP 1 and CDMP 2 in the nucleus pulposus (NP) than the inner annulus fibrosus (IAF) (P < 0.05), and the proportion of immunopositive cells in the outer annulus fibrosus (OAF) was always lower than that seen in the NP and IAF
Summary
Loss of intervertebral disc (IVD) matrix and disc height as a result of 'degeneration' has been implicated as a major cause of low back pain (LBP). The use of anabolic growth factors as therapies to regenerate IVD matrix, restoring disc height and reversing degenerative disc disease, has been suggested. Low back pain (LBP) is a major problem in the western world, affecting approximately 11 million people in the UK for at least one week each month [1]. It leads to a considerable loss of working days and has a significant impact on the national health service [2]. To ensure success they require a greater level of understanding of the pathobiology of IVD degeneration than is currently available [5]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
