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McKinley JP, O'Connell GD. Review of state-of-the-art micro and macro-bioreactors for the intervertebral disc. J Biomech 2024; 165:111964. [PMID: 38412621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.111964] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Lower back pain continues to be a global epidemic, limiting quality of life and ability to work, due in large part to symptomatic disc degeneration. Development of more effective and less invasive biological strategies are needed to treat disc degeneration. In vitro models such as macro- or micro-bioreactors or mechanically active organ-chips hold great promise in reducing the need for animal studies that may have limited clinical translatability, due to harsher and more complex mechanical loading environments in human discs than in most animal models. This review highlights the complex loading conditions of the disc in situ, evaluates state-of-the-art designs for applying such complex loads across multiple length scales, from macro-bioreactors that load whole discs to organ-chips that aim to replicate cellular or engineered tissue loading. Emphasis was placed on the rapidly evolving more customizable organ-chips, given their greater potential for studying the progression and treatment of symptomatic disc degeneration. Lastly, this review identifies new trends and challenges for using organ-chips to assess therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan P McKinley
- Berkeley BioMechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley 94720, CA, USA.
| | - Grace D O'Connell
- Berkeley BioMechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley 94720, CA, USA.
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2
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Mukherjee J, Chaturvedi D, Mishra S, Jain R, Dandekar P. Microfluidic technology for cell biology-related applications: a review. J Biol Phys 2024; 50:1-27. [PMID: 38055086 PMCID: PMC10864244 DOI: 10.1007/s10867-023-09646-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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fluid flow at the microscale level exhibits a unique phenomenon that can be explored to fabricate microfluidic devices integrated with components that can perform various biological functions. In this manuscript, the importance of physics for microscale fluid dynamics using microfluidic devices has been reviewed. Microfluidic devices provide new opportunities with regard to spatial and temporal control over cell growth. Furthermore, the manuscript presents an overview of cellular stimuli observed by combining surfaces that mimic the complex biochemistries and different geometries of the extracellular matrix, with microfluidic channels regulating the transport of fluids, soluble factors, etc. We have also explained the concept of mechanotransduction, which defines the relation between mechanical force and biological response. Furthermore, the manipulation of cellular microenvironments by the use of microfluidic systems has been highlighted as a useful device for basic cell biology research activities. Finally, the article focuses on highly integrated microfluidic platforms that exhibit immense potential for biomedical and pharmaceutical research as robust and portable point-of-care diagnostic devices for the assessment of clinical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joydeb Mukherjee
- Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, 400019, India
| | - Deepa Chaturvedi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, 400019, India
| | - Shlok Mishra
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, 400019, India
| | - Ratnesh Jain
- Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, 400019, India
| | - Prajakta Dandekar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, 400019, India.
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Riahinezhad H, Amsden BG. In situ forming, mechanically resilient hydrogels prepared from 4a-[PEG- b-PTMC-Ac] and thiolated chondroitin sulfate for nucleus pulposus cell delivery. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:1257-1270. [PMID: 38167961 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02574h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD) is a common condition that causes severe back pain and affects patients' mobility and life quality considerably. IVDD originates within the central region of the disk called the nucleus pulposus (NP). Removing the damaged tissue and replacing it with NP cells (NPCs) delivered within an in situ forming hydrogel is a promising treatment approach. Herein we describe a hydrogel formulation based on 4-arm [poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(trimethylene carbonate)-acrylate] (4a[PEG-b-PTMC-Ac]) crosslinked with thiolated chondroitin sulfate via Michael-type reaction for this purpose. A library of hydrogels based on 15 kDa 4a-[PEG] with PTMC blocks of varying molecular weight were prepared and characterized. The instantaneous moduli of the hydrogels were adjustable from 24 to 150 kPa depending on the length of the PTMC block and the polymer volume fraction. The influence of each of these parameters was effectively explained using both scaling or mean field theories of polyelectrolyte hydrogels. The hydrogels were resistant to cyclic compressive loading and degraded gradually over 70 days in vitro. A hydrogel formulation with an instantaneous modulus at the high end of the range of values reported for human NP tissue was chosen to assess the ability of these hydrogels for delivering NPCs. The prepolymer solution was injectable and formed a hydrogel within 30 minutes at 37 °C. Bovine NPCs were encapsulated within this hydrogel with high viability and proliferated throughout a 28 day, hypoxic culture period. The encapsulated NPCs formed clusters and deposited collagen type II but no collagen type I within the hydrogels. Despite an initial gradual decrease, a steady-state modulus was reached at the end of the 28 day culture period that was within the range reported for healthy human NP tissue. This in situ forming hydrogel formulation is a promising approach and with further development could be a viable clinical treatment for IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Riahinezhad
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Brian G Amsden
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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Heissel JA, Healy OJ, Burke O, Lopez C. Standing Tall: Do Height-Based Accountability Incentives Predict Artificial Increases in Measured Height Among Sailors in the U.S. Military? Mil Med 2024; 189:e259-e266. [PMID: 37540569 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad302] [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] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to investigate the changes in men's and women's measured height in response to weight gain above standards for the U.S. Navy and to quantify associated distortions in body mass index (BMI). We expected that some servicemembers would manipulate their measured height to comply with service standards. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was a retrospective observational study. The data were housed in the Person-Event Data Environment, an individual-level administrative registry from the United States Department of Defense. All participants were active-duty U.S. Navy sailors aged 21-50 during the years 2010-2019. The main outcomes were height and weight as recorded during twice-yearly physical fitness assessments and BMI calculated as: height in pounds × 703/(height in inches)2. We assessed whether weight gain above standards was associated with an increase in height at the subsequent height-weight assessment. RESULTS Among the 489,020 sailors, individuals were nearly 1.5 times as likely to measure taller when they gained weight that put them above military height-weight standards as compared to those who continued to remain within standards. Men were more often out of standards and therefore their measured height increased during subsequent assessments more often than women. Increases in height depressed measures of BMI slightly. CONCLUSIONS Among U.S. sailors, taller height was correlated with surpassing height-based weight limits, where taller individuals were allowed to weigh more and still meet professional weight standards. Results underscore that current height-weight accountability standards may distort behavior, leading servicemembers to manipulate measurements rather than improve job-relevant fitness. Instead, greater reliance on fitness-based measures of health, such as fitness tests, may hold promise for upholding servicemember readiness. Our results highlight that when stakes are attached to a measure, individuals may work to raise their performance using strategies that are misaligned with the policy intent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Heissel
- Department of Defense Management, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA 93908, USA
- IZA Institute of Labor Economics, Bonn 53113, Germany
| | - Olivia J Healy
- School of Public Policy, Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Ollieanna Burke
- Manpower, Personnel, and Training, U.S. Navy, Arlington, VA 22203, USA
| | - Cristina Lopez
- Combat Development and Integration, U.S. Marine Corps, Quantico, VA 22134, USA
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Shu D, Dai S, Wang J, Meng F, Zhang C, Zhao Z. Impact of Running Exercise on Intervertebral Disc: A Systematic Review. Sports Health 2024:19417381231221125. [PMID: 38204324 DOI: 10.1177/19417381231221125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Running is one of the most popular sports worldwide. However, controversies exist regarding how running affects runner's intervertebral discs (IVD). OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to systematically review studies that evaluated IVD morphology or composition changes in response to running exercise, to determine the impact of running exercise on IVD. DATA SOURCES A systematic literature search was performed for 4 major databases: PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science. STUDY SELECTION Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) healthy people without known IVD disease or major complications such as tuberculosis (IVD degeneration or low back pain are considered as minor complications); (2) subjects performed 1-time or regular running exercises; (3) pre and post comparison of runners or comparison between runners and healthy control subjects; (4) direct or indirect IVD morphology or composition measured; (5) IVD assessed before and after either acute or chronic running exercise, or compared cross-sectionally between runners and controls. Exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) reviews, editorials, letters or abstracts only; (2) animal studies; (3) subjects performed exercise other than running. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 3. DATA EXTRACTION The extracted data included study design and primary outcomes of the included studies. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) was used to evaluate study quality and risk of bias. RESULTS A total of 13 studies with 632 participants were included in the final analysis; 4 studies measured IVD changes using stature or spinal height, and the other 9 measured IVD changes using magnetic resonance imaging; 6 studies found that running acutely and negatively impacts IVD; 3 out of 5 cross-sectional studies found that IVD parameters are better for runners than controls; 1 longitudinal study found no significant difference in IVD before and after training for marathon in runners; 1 longitudinal study found no significant difference in changes of IVD between runners and controls after 15 years of follow-up. CONCLUSION Negative changes in IVD exist for a short period of time after running, which may be due to the temporary compression pushing water content out of the disc. Cross-sectional studies suggest that long-term running exerts a mild positive effect on IVD; however, this inference has not been confirmed by high-quality longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingbo Shu
- Department of Radiology, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital of Zhejiang University), Shaoxing, China
- Shaoxing Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Imaging of Tumor and Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital of Zhejiang University), Shaoxing, China
| | - Siyu Dai
- School of Clinical Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Sport Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital of Zhejiang University), Shaoxing, China
- Shaoxing Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Imaging of Tumor and Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital of Zhejiang University), Shaoxing, China
| | - Fanjing Meng
- School of Clinical Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Sport Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chuan Zhang
- School of Physical Education and Sport, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhenhua Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital of Zhejiang University), Shaoxing, China
- Shaoxing Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Imaging of Tumor and Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital of Zhejiang University), Shaoxing, China
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Zou X, Zhang X, Han S, Wei L, Zheng Z, Wang Y, Xin J, Zhang S. Pathogenesis and therapeutic implications of matrix metalloproteinases in intervertebral disc degeneration: A comprehensive review. Biochimie 2023; 214:27-48. [PMID: 37268183 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is a common disorder that affects the spine and is a major cause of lower back pain (LBP). The extracellular matrix (ECM) is the structural foundation of the biomechanical properties of IVD, and its degradation is the main pathological characteristic of IDD. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of endopeptidases that play an important role in the degradation and remodeling of the ECM. Several recent studies have shown that the expression and activity of many MMP subgroups are significantly upregulated in degenerated IVD tissue. This upregulation of MMPs results in an imbalance of ECM anabolism and catabolism, leading to the degradation of the ECM and the development of IDD. Therefore, the regulation of MMP expression is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of IDD. Recent research has focused on identifying the mechanisms by which MMPs cause ECM degradation and promote IDD, as well as on developing therapies that target MMPs. In summary, MMP dysregulation is a crucial factor in the development of IDD, and a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved is needed to develop effective biological therapies that target MMPs to treat IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosong Zou
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Xingmin Zhang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Song Han
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Lin Wei
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Zhi Zheng
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yongjie Wang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jingguo Xin
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Shaokun Zhang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China.
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Qian Z, Zhuang Z, Liu X, Bai H, Ren L, Ren L. Effects of extreme cyclic loading on the cushioning performance of human heel pads under engineering test condition. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1229976. [PMID: 37929195 PMCID: PMC10623005 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1229976] [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: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human heel pads commonly undergo cyclic loading during daily activities. Low cyclic loadings such as daily human walking tend to have less effect on the mechanical properties of heel pads. However, the impact of cyclic loading on cushion performance, a vital biomechanical property of heel pads, under engineering test condition remains unexplored. Herein, dynamic mechanical measurements and finite element (FE) simulations were employed to explore this phenomenon. It was found that the wavy collagen fibers in the heel pad will be straightened under cycle compression loading, which resulted in increased stiffness of the heel pad. The stiffness of the heel pads demonstrated an inclination to escalate over a span of 50,000 loading cycles, consequently resulting in a corresponding increase in peak impact force over the same loading cycles. Sustained cyclic loading has the potential to result in the fracturing of the straightened collagen fibers, this collagen breakage may diminish the stiffness of the heel pad, leading to a reduction in peak impact force. This work enhances understanding of the biomechanical functions of human heel pad and may provide potential inspirations for the innovative development of healthcare devices for foot complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Qian
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Haotian Bai
- Orthopedic Medical Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Luquan Ren
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Ying Y, Cai K, Cai X, Zhang K, Qiu R, Jiang G, Luo K. Recent advances in the repair of degenerative intervertebral disc for preclinical applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1259731. [PMID: 37811372 PMCID: PMC10557490 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1259731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a load-bearing, avascular tissue that cushions pressure and increases flexibility in the spine. Under the influence of obesity, injury, and reduced nutrient supply, it develops pathological changes such as fibular annulus (AF) injury, disc herniation, and inflammation, eventually leading to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Lower back pain (LBP) caused by IDD is a severe chronic disorder that severely affects patients' quality of life and has a substantial socioeconomic impact. Patients may consider surgical treatment after conservative treatment has failed. However, the broken AF cannot be repaired after surgery, and the incidence of re-protrusion and reoccurring pain is high, possibly leading to a degeneration of the adjacent vertebrae. Therefore, effective treatment strategies must be explored to repair and prevent IDD. This paper systematically reviews recent advances in repairing IVD, describes its advantages and shortcomings, and explores the future direction of repair technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijian Ying
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kaiwen Cai
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiongxiong Cai
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rongzhang Qiu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guoqiang Jiang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kefeng Luo
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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Gewiess J, Eglauf J, Soubrier A, Grad S, Alini M, Peroglio M, Ma J. The influence of intervertebral disc overloading on nociceptor calcium flickering. JOR Spine 2023; 6:e1267. [PMID: 37780827 PMCID: PMC10540821 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mechanical overloading can trigger a degenerative-like cascade in an organ culture of intervertebral disc (IVD). Whether the overloaded IVD can influence the activation of nociceptors (i.e., the damage sensing neurons) remains unknown. The study aims to investigate the influence of overloaded IVD conditioned medium (CM) on the activation of nociceptors. Methods In the static loading regime, force-controlled loading of 0.2 MPa for 20 h/day representing "long-term sitting and standing" was compared with a displacement-controlled loading maintaining original IVD height. In the dynamic loading regime, high-frequency-intensity loading representing degenerative "wear and tear" was compared with a lower-frequency-intensity loading. CM of differently loaded IVDs were collected to stimulate the primary bovine dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cultures. Calcium imaging (Fluo-4) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) immunofluorescent labeling were jointly used to record the calcium flickering in CGRP(+) nociceptors. Results Force-controlled loading led to a higher IVD cell death compared to displacement-controlled loading. Both static and dynamic overloading (force-controlled and high-frequency-intensity loadings) elevated the frequency of calcium flickering in the subsurface space of CGRP(+) nociceptors compared to their mild loading counterparts. Conclusion In the organ culture system, IVD overloading mediated an altered IVD-nociceptor communication suggesting a biological mechanism associated with discogenic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Gewiess
- AO Research Institute, AO FoundationDavosSwitzerland
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and TraumatologyInselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Janick Eglauf
- AO Research Institute, AO FoundationDavosSwitzerland
| | | | - Sibylle Grad
- AO Research Institute, AO FoundationDavosSwitzerland
| | - Mauro Alini
- AO Research Institute, AO FoundationDavosSwitzerland
| | | | - Junxuan Ma
- AO Research Institute, AO FoundationDavosSwitzerland
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Hamaguchi H, Kitagawa M, Sakamoto D, Katscher U, Sudo H, Yamada K, Kudo K, Tha KK. Quantitative Assessment of Intervertebral Disc Composition by MRI: Sensitivity to Diurnal Variation. Tomography 2023; 9:1029-1040. [PMID: 37218944 DOI: 10.3390/tomography9030084] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Whether diurnal variation exists in quantitative MRI indices such as the T1rho relaxation time (T1ρ) of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is yet to be explored. This prospective study aimed to evaluate the diurnal variation in T1ρ, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and electrical conductivity (σ) of lumbar IVD and its relationship with other MRI or clinical indices. Lumbar spine MRI, including T1ρ imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and electric properties tomography (EPT), was conducted on 17 sedentary workers twice (morning and evening) on the same day. The T1ρ, ADC, and σ of IVD were compared between the time points. Their diurnal variation, if any, was tested for correlation with age, body mass index (BMI), IVD level, Pfirrmann grade, scan interval, and diurnal variation in IVD height index. The results showed a significant decrease in T1ρ and ADC and a significant increase in the σ of IVD in the evening. T1ρ variation had a weak correlation with age and scan interval, and ADC variation with scan interval. Diurnal variation exists for the T1ρ, ADC, and σ of lumbar IVD, which should be accounted for in image interpretation. This variation is thought to be due to diurnal variations in intradiscal water, proteoglycan, and sodium ion concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Hamaguchi
- Laboratory for Biomarker Imaging Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Maho Kitagawa
- Laboratory for Biomarker Imaging Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Daiki Sakamoto
- Laboratory for Biomarker Imaging Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Ulrich Katscher
- Philips Research Laboratories, Roentgenstrasse 24-26, 22335 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hideki Sudo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hokkaido University Hospital, N14 W5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8648, Japan
| | - Katsuhisa Yamada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hokkaido University Hospital, N14 W5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8648, Japan
| | - Kohsuke Kudo
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Hokkaido University Hospital, N14 W5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8648, Japan
- Global Center for Biomedical Science and Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Khin Khin Tha
- Laboratory for Biomarker Imaging Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
- Global Center for Biomedical Science and Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
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Effect of microgravity on mechanical loadings in lumbar spine at various postures: a numerical study. NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:16. [PMID: 36792893 PMCID: PMC9931710 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00253-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to quantitatively analyze the mechanical change of spinal segments (disc, muscle, and ligament) at various postures under microgravity using a full-body musculoskeletal modeling approach. Specifically, in the lumbar spine, the vertebra were modeled as rigid bodies, the intervertebral discs were modeled as 6-degree-of-freedom joints with linear force-deformation relationships, the disc swelling pressure was deformation dependent, the ligaments were modeled as piecewise linear elastic materials, the muscle strength was dependent on its functional cross-sectional area. The neutral posture and the "fetal tuck" posture in microgravity (short as "Neutral 0G" and "Fetal Tuck 0G", in our simulation, the G constant was set to 0 for simulating microgravity), and for comparison, the relaxed standing posture in 1G and 0G gravity (short as "Neutral 1G" and "Standing 0G") were simulated. Compared to values at Neutral 1G, the mechanical response in the lower spine changed significantly at Neutral 0G. For example, the compressive forces on lumbar discs decreased 62-70%, the muscle forces decreased 55.7-92.9%, while disc water content increased 7.0-10.2%, disc height increased 2.1-3.0%, disc volume increased 6.4-9.3%, and ligament forces increased 59.5-271.3% at Neutral 0G. The fetal tuck 0G reversed these changes at Neutral 0G back toward values at Neutral 1G, with magnitudes much larger than those at Neutral 1G. Our results suggest that microgravity has significant influences on spinal biomechanics, alteration of which may increase the risks of disc herniation and degeneration, muscle atrophy, and/or ligament failure.
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Deng R, Kang R, Jin X, Wang Z, Liu X, Wang Q, Xie L. Mechanical stimulation promotes MSCs healing the lesion of intervertebral disc annulus fibrosus. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1137199. [PMID: 36845186 PMCID: PMC9950411 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1137199] [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: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and scaffolds offer promising perspectives for annulus fibrosus (AF) repair. The repair effect was linked to features of the local mechanical environment related to the differentiation of MSCs. In this study, we established a Fibrinogen-Thrombin-Genipin (Fib-T-G) gel which is sticky and could transfer strain force from AF tissue to the human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) embedded in the gel. After the Fib-T-G biological gel was injected into the AF fissures, the histology scores of intervertebral disc (IVD) and AF tissue showed that Fib-T-G gel could better repair the AF fissure in caudal IVD of rats, and increase the expression of AF-related proteins including Collagen 1 (COL1), Collagen 2 (COL2) as well as mechanotransduction-related proteins including RhoA and ROCK1. To clarify the mechanism that sticky Fib-T-G gel induces the healing of AF fissures and the differentiation of hMSCs, we further investigated the differentiation of hMSCs under mechanical strain in vitro. It was demonstrated that both AF-specific genes, including Mohawk and SOX-9, and ECM markers (COL1, COL2, aggrecan) of hMSCs were up-regulated in the environment of strain force. Moreover, RhoA/ROCK1 proteins were also found to be significantly up-regulated. In addition, we further -demonstrated that the fibrochondroinductive effect of the mechanical microenvironment process could be significantly blocked or up-regulated by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK1 pathway or overexpressing RhoA in MSCs, respectively. Summarily, this study will provide a therapeutic alternative to repair AF tears and provide evidence that RhoA/ROCK1 is vital for hMSCs response to mechanical strain and AF-like differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Deng
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ran Kang
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,Department of Orthopedics, Nanjing Lishui Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Ran Kang, ; Xin Liu, ; Lin Xie,
| | - Xiaoyu Jin
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,Department of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zihan Wang
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Ran Kang, ; Xin Liu, ; Lin Xie,
| | - Qing Wang
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Xie
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Ran Kang, ; Xin Liu, ; Lin Xie,
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13
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Easson GWD, Savadipour A, Anandarajah A, Iannucci LE, Lake SP, Guilak F, Tang SY. Modulation of TRPV4 protects against degeneration induced by sustained loading and promotes matrix synthesis in the intervertebral disc. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22714. [PMID: 36583692 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201388r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
While it is well known that mechanical signals can either promote or disrupt intervertebral disc (IVD) homeostasis, the molecular mechanisms for transducing mechanical stimuli are not fully understood. The transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) ion channel activated in isolated IVD cells initiates extracellular matrix (ECM) gene expression, while TRPV4 ablation reduces cytokine production in response to circumferential stretching. However, the role of TRPV4 on ECM maintenance during tissue-level mechanical loading remains unknown. Using an organ culture model, we modulated TRPV4 function over both short- (hours) and long-term (days) and evaluated the IVDs' response. Activating TRPV4 with the agonist GSK101 resulted in a Ca2+ flux propagating across the cells within the IVD. Nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling in the IVD peaked at 6 h following TRPV4 activation that subsequently resulted in higher interleukin (IL)-6 production at 7 days. These cellular responses were concomitant with the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans and increased hydration in the nucleus pulposus that culminated in higher stiffness of the IVD. Sustained compressive loading of the IVD resulted in elevated NF-κB activity, IL-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) production, and degenerative changes to the ECM. TRPV4 inhibition using GSK205 during loading mitigated the changes in inflammatory cytokines, protected against IVD degeneration, but could not prevent ECM disorganization due to mechanical damage in the annulus fibrosus. These results indicate TRPV4 plays an important role in both short- and long-term adaptations of the IVD to mechanical loading. The modulation of TRPV4 may be a possible therapeutic for preventing load-induced IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garrett W D Easson
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Alireza Savadipour
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Shriner's Hospital for Children - St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Akila Anandarajah
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Leanne E Iannucci
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Spencer P Lake
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Farshid Guilak
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Shriner's Hospital for Children - St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Simon Y Tang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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14
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Mechanobiology of the Human Intervertebral Disc: Systematic Review of the Literature and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032728. [PMID: 36769050 PMCID: PMC9917554 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032728] [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: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain is an extremely common condition with severe consequences. Among its potential specific causes, degenerative disc disease (DDD) is one of the most frequently observed. Mechanobiology is an emerging science studying the interplay between mechanical stimuli and the biological behavior of cells and tissues. The aim of the presented study is to review, with a systematic approach, the existing literature regarding the mechanobiology of the human intervertebral disc (IVD), define the main pathways involved in DDD and identify novel potential therapeutic targets. The review was carried out in accordance with the Preferential Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were included if they described biological responses of human IVD cells under mechanical stimulation or alterations of mechanical properties of the IVD determined by different gene expression. Fifteen studies were included and showed promising results confirming the mechanobiology of the human IVD as a key element in DDD. The technical advances of the last decade have allowed us to increase our understanding of this topic, enabling us to identify possible therapeutic targets to treat and to prevent DDD. Further research and technological innovations will shed light on the interactions between the mechanics and biology of the human IVD.
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15
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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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16
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Murgoci N. The impact of perception regarding therapeutic exercises and dietary changing adherence of subjects known with low back pain. BALNEO AND PRM RESEARCH JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.12680/balneo.2022.525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract: Debates regarding the role of therapeutic exercises and diet as modulators of an anti-inflammatory state occurred in the last years in the medical environment. The syner-gy between moderate-intensity exercise and a proper diet targeting decreasing IL-1 inhib-its the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α, the key regulator of local and systemic inflammation. One of the most important causes of short and long-term disabil-ity in all occupational groups is back pain, impacting the quality of life. Degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) causes low back pain that intensifies with age. Assessment of the Oswestry Disability Index was applied on 23 subjects with low back pain to investigate the degree of disability. Nutrition of IVD, implying therapeutic exercises, and a customized diet may be crucial adjuvants for the rehabilitation process. The appropriate diet and therapeutic exercise approach are meant to evaluate the impact of awareness regarding the possibility of improving health outcomes. In this present study, women have a strong positive Pearson correlation (p<0.05) with minimal (66-70 years) disability and moderate disability (r=1.000, CI =99%). Subjects with moderate disability conditions have “no” intention to implement diet changes and maintain therapeutic exercise adher-ence (r=0.902, CI = 95%). Men (71-75 years, r=0.995, CI =99%) registered a positive strong correlation with maximum deficiency (r=1.000, CI =99%) and “possible no” change in diet and exercise adherence will be applied (r=0.866, CI = 95%). Total disability responders an-swered with a “probable yes” option (r=0.884, CI=95%) but the dependence on their ca-reers is decisive. The education strategy is essential because diet change implementation can cause resistive behavior as well as adherence to exercise therapy. A key to effectively managing the inflammatory state due to different comorbidities is to use the cumulative effects of health professionals' prescriptions. The challenge is to ensure adherence to these actions for each patient.
Keywords: anti-inflammatory, therapeutic exercises, rehabilitation, diet, Oswestry Disability In-dex (ODI), back pain, intervertebral disc, nutrition, perception, disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolae Murgoci
- 1 “Dunărea de Jos” University, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports, Department of Individual Sports and Kinetotherapy, 63-65 Gării Street, Galați, Romania
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17
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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: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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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18
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Šećerović A, Ristaniemi A, Cui S, Li Z, Soubrier A, Alini M, Ferguson SJ, Weder G, Heub S, Ledroit D, Grad S. Toward the Next Generation of Spine Bioreactors: Validation of an Ex Vivo Intervertebral Disc Organ Model and Customized Specimen Holder for Multiaxial Loading. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:3969-3976. [PMID: 35977717 PMCID: PMC9472220 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
![]()
A new generation of bioreactors with integrated six degrees
of
freedom (6 DOF) aims to mimic more accurately the natural intervertebral
disc (IVD) load. We developed and validated in a biological and mechanical
study a specimen holder and corresponding ex vivo IVD organ model
according to the bioreactor requirements for multiaxial loading and
a long-term IVD culture. IVD height changes and cell viability were
compared between the 6 DOF model and the standard 1 DOF model throughout
the 3 weeks of cyclic compressive loading in the uniaxial bioreactor.
Furthermore, the 6 DOF model and holder were loaded for 9 days in
the multiaxial bioreactor under development using the same conditions,
and the IVDs were evaluated for cell viability. The interface of the
IVD model and specimen holder, enhanced with fixation screws onto
the bone, was tested in compression, torsion, lateral bending, and
tension. Additionally, critical motions such as tension and bending
were assessed for a combination of side screws and top screws or side
screws and adhesive. The 6 DOF model loaded in the uniaxial bioreactor
maintained similar cell viability in the IVD regions as the 1 DOF
model. The viability was high after 2 weeks throughout the whole IVD
and reduced by more than 30% in the inner annulus fibrous after 3
weeks. Similarly, the IVDs remained highly viabile when cultured in
the multiaxial bioreactor. In both models, IVD height changes after
loading were in the range of typical physiological conditions. When
differently directed motions were applied, the holder-IVD interface
remained stable under hyper-physiological loading levels using a side
screw approach in compression and torsion and the combination of side
and top screws in tension and bending. We thus conclude that the developed
holding system is mechanically reliable and biologically compatible
for application in a new generation of multiaxial bioreactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amra Šećerović
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos 7270, Switzerland
| | - Aapo Ristaniemi
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos 7270, Switzerland
| | - Shangbin Cui
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos 7270, Switzerland.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zhen Li
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos 7270, Switzerland
| | - Astrid Soubrier
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos 7270, Switzerland
| | - Mauro Alini
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos 7270, Switzerland
| | | | - Gilles Weder
- CSEM, Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology, Rue Jaquet-Droz 1, Neuchatel 2002, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Heub
- CSEM, Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology, Rue Jaquet-Droz 1, Neuchatel 2002, Switzerland
| | - Diane Ledroit
- CSEM, Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology, Rue Jaquet-Droz 1, Neuchatel 2002, Switzerland
| | - Sibylle Grad
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos 7270, Switzerland
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19
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Tseng MC, Lim J, Chu YC, Chen CW, Feng CK, Wang JL. Dynamic Pressure Stimulation Upregulates Collagen II and Aggrecan in Nucleus Pulposus Cells Through Calcium Signaling. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2022; 47:1111-1119. [PMID: 34812197 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000004286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN An in vitro study to investigate the effect of pressure stimulation on nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the question whether physical stimulation can be leveraged to enhance extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis as a preventive measure for intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA ECM plays an important role in regulating hydration and pressure balance of the IVD. METHODS Cellular stimulation devices with different pressurizing protocols were used to create a pressurized environment to cells cultures. The setup was used to mimic the pressurized conditions within IVD to investigate the effect of pressure stimulation on NP cells. RESULTS Pressure stimulation at 300 kPa can enhance the synthesis of ECM proteins Collagen II and aggrecan in NP cells and the effect of dynamic pressure stimulation outperformed the static one. The difference between static and dynamic pressure stimulation was due primarily to calcium signaling activated by pressure fluctuation. The superior effect of dynamic pressure holds for a wide range of stimulation durations, relating to the range of spontaneous calcium oscillations in NP cells. CONCLUSION The results link mechanotransduction to the downstream ECM protein synthesis and suggest slow exercises that correspond with spontaneous calcium oscillations in NP cells can be effective to stimulate ECM synthesis in IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Cyun Tseng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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20
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Wu SK, Chen HY, You JY, Bau JG, Lin YC, Kuo LC. Outcomes of active cervical therapeutic exercise on dynamic intervertebral foramen changes in neck pain patients with disc herniation. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:728. [PMID: 35906546 PMCID: PMC9338473 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05670-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To better understand biomechanical factors that affect intervertebral alignment throughout active therapeutic exercise, it is necessary to determine spinal kinematics when subjects perform spinal exercises. This study aims to investigate the outcomes of active cervical therapeutic exercise on intervertebral foramen changes in neck pain patients with disc herniation. METHODS Thirty diagnosed C4/5 and/or C5/6 disc-herniated patients receiving an 8-week cervical therapeutic exercise program were followed up with videofluoroscopic images. The dynamic changes in the foramen were computed at different timepoints, including the neutral position, end-range positions in cervical flexion-extension, protrusion-retraction, and lateral flexion movements. RESULTS The results showed that the active cervical flexion, retraction, and lateral flexion away from the affected side movements increased the area of the patients' intervertebral foramen; while the active extension, protrusion, and lateral flexion toward the affected side reduced the areas of intervertebral foramen before treatment. After the treatment, the active cervical flexion significantly increased the C2/3, C3/4, and C6/7 foramen area by 5.02-8.67% (p = 0.001 ~ 0.029), and the extension exercise significantly reduced the C2/3 and C4/5 area by 5.12-9.18% (p = 0.001 ~ 0.006) compared to the baseline. Active retraction movement significantly increased the foramen area from C2/3 to C6/7 by 3.82-8.66% (p = 0.002 ~ 0.036 with exception of C5/6). Active lateral flexion away from the affected side significantly increased the foramen by 3.71-6.78% (p = 0.007 ~ 0.046 with exception of C6/7). CONCLUSIONS The 8-week therapeutic exercises including repeated cervical retraction, extension, and lateral flexion movements to the lesion led to significant changes and improvements in intervertebral foramen areas of the patients with disc herniation. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN61539024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyi-Kuen Wu
- Department of Physical Therapy, HungKuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Han-Yu Chen
- Department of Physical Therapy, HungKuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Yuan You
- Department of Physical Therapy, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Guo Bau
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, HungKuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Lin
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chieh Kuo
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan. .,Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
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21
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Zhao R, Yang L, He S, Xia T. Nucleus pulposus cell senescence is regulated by substrate stiffness and is alleviated by LOX possibly through the integrin β1-p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Exp Cell Res 2022; 417:113230. [PMID: 35667466 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a main contributor to induce low back pain, and the pathogenic mechanism of IVDD remains unclear. The nucleus pulposus (NP) is a component of the intervertebral disc (IVD) that provides protection from mechanical stimuli. The matrix stiffness of NP tissue increases during the process of disc degeneration. Although several studies have found that pathological mechanical stimuli induce NP cell senescence, which is relevant for NP degeneration, however, the effect of matrix stiffness on NP cell senescence is not clear. Therefore, in the present study, we used polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel with controllable stiffness to mimic the matrix stiffness of normal (4 kPa) and severely degenerated (20 kPa) NP tissue. Rat NP cells were isolated and cultured on substrates with different stiffness, and the cell proliferation, SA-β-gal activity, cell cycle, telomerase activity and the phenotype markers of NP cells were analyzed. Moreover, cytoskeleton staining and NP cellular Young's modulus on different substrates were also measured. To further investigate how substrate stiffness affects NP cell senescence, lysyl oxidase (LOX) was used to restore the extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis of NP cells. The expression levels of integrin β1 and p38 MAPK were then measured. Our results showed that the 20 kPa substrate significantly induced NP cell senescence compared to the 4 kPa substrate. NP cells cultured on the 20 kPa substrate failed to maintain the expression of their phenotype markers. Furthermore, the 20 kPa substrate induced an increase of Young's modulus of NP cells, which possibly through up regulating the expressions of integrin β1 and p38 MAPK. These results indicated that the integrin β1-p38 MAPK signaling pathway may participated in substrate stiffness induced senescence of NP cells. LOX significantly increased ECM synthesis and inhibited substrate stiffness induced NP cell senescence, which indicated that matrix mechanics may be essential for maintaining the function of NP cell. Our results may provide a new perspective on the mechanism of IVDD by pathological matrix mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runze Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Orthopedic Institute, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Yang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Shuangjian He
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215153, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Tingting Xia
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, The Affiliated Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215153, Jiangsu, China.
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22
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Krull CM, Rife J, Klamer B, Purmessur D, Walter BA. Pericellular heparan sulfate proteoglycans: Role in regulating the biosynthetic response of nucleus pulposus cells to osmotic loading. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1209. [PMID: 35783912 PMCID: PMC9238280 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1209] [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: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Daily physiologic loading causes fluctuations in hydration of the intervertebral disc (IVD); thus, the embedded cells experience cyclic alterations to their osmotic environment. These osmotic fluctuations have been described as a mechanism linking mechanics and biology, and have previously been shown to promote biosynthesis in chondrocytes. However, this phenomenon has yet to be fully interrogated in the IVD. Additionally, the specialized extracellular matrix surrounding the cells, the pericellular matrix (PCM), transduces the biophysical signals that cells ultimately experience. While it is known that the PCM is altered in disc degeneration, whether it disrupts normal osmotic mechanotransduction has yet to be determined. Thus, our objectives were to assess: (1) whether dynamic osmotic conditions stimulate biosynthesis in nucleus pulposus cells, and (2) whether pericellular heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) modulate the biosynthetic response to osmotic loading. Methods Bovine nucleus pulposus cells isolated with retained PCM were encapsulated in 1.5% alginate beads and treated with or without heparinase III, an enzyme that degrades the pericellular HSPGs. Beads were subjected to 1 h of daily iso-osmotic, hyper-osmotic, or hypo-osmotic loading for 1, 2, or 4 weeks. At each timepoint the total amount of extracellular and pericellular sGAG/DNA were quantified. Additionally, whether osmotic loading triggered alterations to HSPG sulfation was assessed via immunohistochemistry for the heparan sulfate 6-O-sulfertransferase 1 (HS6ST1) enzyme. Results Osmotic loading significantly influenced sGAG/DNA accumulation with a hyper-osmotic change promoting the greatest sGAG/DNA accumulation in the pericellular region compared with iso-osmotic conditions. Heparanase-III treatment significantly reduced extracellular sGAG/DNA but pericellular sGAG was not affected. HS6ST1 expression was not affected by osmotic loading. Conclusion Results suggest that hyper-osmotic loading promotes matrix synthesis and that modifications to HSPGs directly influence the metabolic responses of cells to osmotic fluctuations. Collectively, results suggest degeneration-associated modifications to pericellular HSPGs may contribute to the altered mechanobiology observed in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly M. Krull
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Jordan Rife
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Brett Klamer
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for BiostatisticsThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
- Department of OrthopedicsThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
- Spine Research InstituteThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Benjamin A. Walter
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
- Department of OrthopedicsThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
- Spine Research InstituteThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
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Electrical Stimulation-Mediated Tissue Healing in Porcine Intervertebral Disc Under Mechanically Dynamic Organ Culture Conditions. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2022; 47:764-772. [PMID: 35102117 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000004331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Porcine intervertebral discs (IVDs) were excised and then drilled to simulate degeneration before being electrically stimulated for 21 days while undergoing mechanical loading. The discs were then analyzed for gene expression and morphology to assess regeneration. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the electrical stimulation of IVD treatment as an early intervention method in halting the progression of degenerative disc disease using an ex-vivo porcine model. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Treatments for degenerative disc disease are limited in their efficacy and tend to treat the symptoms of the disease rather than repairing the degenerated disc itself. There is a dire need for an early intervention treatment that not only halts the progression of the disease but contributes to reviving the degenerated disc. METHODS Lumbar IVDs were extracted from a mature pig within 1 hour of death and were drilled with a 1.5 mm bit to simulate degenerative disc disease. Four IVDs at a time were then cultured in a dynamic bioreactor system under mechanical loading for 21 days, two with and two without the electrical stimulation treatment. The IVDs were assessed using histological analysis, magnetic resonance imaging, and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction to quantify the effectiveness of the treatment on the degenerated discs. RESULTS IVDs with electrical stimulation treatment exhibited extensive annular regeneration and prevented herniation of the nucleus pulposus (NP). In contrast, the untreated group of IVDs were unable to maintain tissue integrity and exhibited NP herniation through multiple layers of the annulus fibrosus. Gene expression showed an increase of extracellular matrix markers and antiinflammatory cytokine interleukin-4 (IL-4), while decreasing in pro-inflammatory markers and pain markers in electrically stimulated IVDs when compared to the untreated group. CONCLUSION The direct electrical stimulation application in NP of damaged IVDs can be a viable option to regenerate damaged NP and annulus fibrosus tissues.
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Jia H, Lin X, Wang D, Wang J, Shang Q, He X, Wu K, Zhao B, Peng P, Wang H, Wang D, Li P, Yang L, Luo Z, Yang L. Injectable hydrogel with nucleus pulposus-matched viscoelastic property prevents intervertebral disc degeneration. J Orthop Translat 2022; 33:162-173. [PMID: 35415072 PMCID: PMC8980713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jot.2022.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IVDD) that greatly affected by regional biomechanical environment is a major cause of low back pain. Injectable hydrogels have been commonly studied for treatment of IVDD due to their capability of mimicking extracellular matrix structure to support cellular behavior and clinical prospects in minimally invasive treatment. However, most hydrogels suffer from complicated chemistry, potential uncertainty and toxicity from in-situ gelation, and mismatch with IVD mechanical environment that limit their therapeutic effects or clinical translation in IVDD or intervertebral disc defect repair. For IVD lesion repair, the study aims to develop a novel hydrogel with shear-thinning enabled injectability, high bio-safety, and mechanical properties adaptable to the IVD environment, using a simple chemistry and method. And therapeutic efficacy of the novel hydrogel in the treatment of IVDD or intervertebral disc defect will be revealed. Methods A glycerol cross-linked PVA gel (GPG) was synthesized based on multiple H-bonds formation between glycerol molecules and PVA chains. The rheological and mechanical properties were tested. The swelling ratio was measured. The micro-architecture was observed through scanning and transmission electron microscopes. Nucleus pulposus (NP) cells were cultured in GPG-coated plates or silicone chambers treated under hydrostatic or dynamic loading in vitro, and examined for proliferation, vitality, apoptosis, expression of catabolic and anabolic markers. GPG was injected in needle puncture (IDD) or NP discectomy (NPD) models in vivo, and examined through magnetic resonance imaging, micro-computed tomography scanning and histological staining. Results GPG had a highly porous structure consisting of interconnected pores. Meanwhile, the GPG had NP-like viscoelastic property, and was able to withstand the cyclic deformation while exhibiting a prominent energy-dissipating capability. In vitro cell tests demonstrated that, the hydrogel significantly down-regulated the expression of catabolic markers, maintained the level of anabolic markers, preserved cell proliferation and vitality, reduced apoptotic rate of NP cells under pathologically hydrostatic and dynamic loading environments compared to cells cultured on untreated plate or silicone chamber. In vivo animal studies revealed that injection of GPG efficiently maintained NP structural integrity, IVD height and relative water content in IDD models, and stimulated the fibrous repair in NPD models. Conclusion This study showed that GPG, with high injectability, NP-like viscoelastic characteristics, good energy-dissipating properties and swelling capacities, preserved NP cells vitality against pathological loading, and had therapeutic effects on IVD repair in IDD and NPD models. The translational potential of this article Effective clinical strategy for treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is still lacking. This study demonstrates that injection of a hydrogel with nucleus pulposus-matched viscoelastic property could remarkably prevent the IVDD progress. Prepared with simple chemistry and procedure, the cell/drug-free GPG with high bio-safety and shear-thinning enabled injectability bears great translational potential for the clinical treatment of IVDD via a minimally invasive approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoruo Jia
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xiao Lin
- Orthopedic Institute and Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jingwei Wang
- Department of Medicine Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Qiliang Shang
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xin He
- Department of Medicine Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- Air Force Hospital of Eastern Theater Command, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Kang Wu
- Orthopedic Institute and Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Boyan Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Pandi Peng
- Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710129, China
| | - Han Wang
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Di Wang
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Pan Li
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- Medical Research Institute, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi′an, 710032, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- Medical Research Institute, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi′an, 710032, China
| | - Zhuojing Luo
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- Medical Research Institute, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi′an, 710032, China
- Corresponding author. Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Orthopedic Institute and Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
- Center for Health Science and Engineering (CHSE), School of Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300130, China
- Corresponding author. Center for Health Science and Engineering (CHSE), School of Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300130, China.
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Slanted slot was the most resistant to failure of ventral slot techniques tested in rabbit cervical vertebrae. ACTA VET BRNO 2022. [DOI: 10.2754/avb202291010043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The ventral slot technique is used to relieve neural compression secondary to intervertebral disc degeneration or disease. In the present study, the biomechanical properties of three different ventral surgical procedures in the rabbit C6–C7 vertebral motion unit (VMU) were assessed and compared with the intact C6–C7 VMU. The ventral slot procedure (slanted, full, or mini; n = 8/group) was performed on these cervical vertebrae. Normal spine torsion and flexion values were compared to those of spines subjected to slanted, full, and mini slot surgery. The slanted slot spines were the most stable, maintaining 70% of normal cervical spine strength, compared to 26% with the full slot and 30% with the mini slot. Regarding torsion, slanted slot spines showed 74% stability compared to the normal cervical spine, while the full slot and mini slot spines showed 58% and 62% stability, respectively. Flexion values were lower after all versions of the ventral slot procedure than in the normal spine, with the greatest flexion difference occurring after the full slot procedure (21% of the normal flexion value). The flexion values also differed significantly between the slanted and full spine groups, and all operated spines showing roughly 60% torsion rates compared with normal spines. The slanted slot maintains more stability in rabbit cervical spine than the other procedures. To our knowledge, this was the first study to examine biomechanical failure differences between the distinct versions of this ventral slot procedure.
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Mainardi A, Cambria E, Occhetta P, Martin I, Barbero A, Schären S, Mehrkens A, Krupkova O. Intervertebral Disc-on-a-Chip as Advanced In Vitro Model for Mechanobiology Research and Drug Testing: A Review and Perspective. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 9:826867. [PMID: 35155416 PMCID: PMC8832503 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.826867] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Discogenic back pain is one of the most diffused musculoskeletal pathologies and a hurdle to a good quality of life for millions of people. Existing therapeutic options are exclusively directed at reducing symptoms, not at targeting the underlying, still poorly understood, degenerative processes. Common intervertebral disc (IVD) disease models still do not fully replicate the course of degenerative IVD disease. Advanced disease models that incorporate mechanical loading are needed to investigate pathological causes and processes, as well as to identify therapeutic targets. Organs-on-chip (OoC) are microfluidic-based devices that aim at recapitulating tissue functions in vitro by introducing key features of the tissue microenvironment (e.g., 3D architecture, soluble signals and mechanical conditioning). In this review we analyze and depict existing OoC platforms used to investigate pathological alterations of IVD cells/tissues and discuss their benefits and limitations. Starting from the consideration that mechanobiology plays a pivotal role in both IVD homeostasis and degeneration, we then focus on OoC settings enabling to recapitulate physiological or aberrant mechanical loading, in conjunction with other relevant features (such as inflammation). Finally, we propose our view on design criteria for IVD-on-a-chip systems, offering a future perspective to model IVD mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mainardi
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Elena Cambria
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Paola Occhetta
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ivan Martin
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Barbero
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Schären
- Spine Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Arne Mehrkens
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Spine Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Olga Krupkova
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Spine Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Lepage Research Institute, University of Prešov, Prešov, Slovakia
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Bajin M, Kojić M, Romanov R, Ahmetović Z. Neglected problem: Influence of school bag on lumbar segment in children. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1045666. [PMID: 36458137 PMCID: PMC9705760 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1045666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES School bag (SB) load causes significant changes in the height and symmetry of the intervertebral discs at each level of the spine from T12-L1 to L5-S1. This study aims to determine the change in the size of the lumbar segment angle at a particularly critical point L3-L4 of the spine in relation to the load of the average weight of SB in healthy male children (students) at standing and after 2-minute gait. METHODS 47 boys, aged 12.2 ± 0.92 years, underwent photogrammetric measurements in the sagittal plane in statics and dynamics, walking on a laboratory treadmill. Measurements were repeated with the weight of SB with a constant load of 6,251 kg, which represents 13.78% of the average body weight of our sample. The lumbar angle (LA) connecting the point of the big toe, the lumbar point L3-L4 and the processus spinosus C7 was measured. In gait, LA was measured in the phases of the middle support and the initial contact of the heel. RESULTS T-test of paired samples was used to estimate the change in LA at standing from 4.953° and walking phases from 6.295° to 7.332° in relation to the unloaded state, and the value of the effect size (ES) indicates that the impact of SB load is significant. CONCLUSIONS Cumulatively, microtraumas caused by SB load significantly affect the increase in intervertebral pressure at the L3-L4 point, which is susceptible to degenerative processes and which can be the cause of lumbar syndrome (LS). Preventive measures are needed in order to lighten SB in this population and introduce up to 10% of students' body weight into the safe zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Bajin
- Faculty of Sport and Psychology, Educons University in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Milan Kojić
- Faculty of Sports and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Romana Romanov
- Faculty of Sport and Psychology, Educons University in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Zlatko Ahmetović
- Faculty of Sport and Psychology, Educons University in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
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Raines BT, Stannard JT, Stricklin OE, Stoker AM, Choma TJ, Cook JL. Effects of Caffeine on Intervertebral Disc Cell Viability in a Whole Organ Culture Model. Global Spine J 2022; 12:61-69. [PMID: 32935580 PMCID: PMC8965308 DOI: 10.1177/2192568220948031] [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] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Controlled laboratory study. OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of exposure to physiologically relevant caffeine concentrations on intervertebral disc (IVD) cell viability and extracellular matrix composition (ECM) in a whole organ culture model as potential contributing mechanisms in development and progression of IVD disorders in humans. Primary outcome measures were IVD viable cell density (VCD) and ECM composition. METHODS A total of 190 IVD whole organ explants from tails of 16 skeletally mature rats-consisting of cranial body half, endplate, IVD, endplate, and caudal body half-were harvested. IVD explants were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: uninjured (n = 90) or injured (20G needle disc puncture/aspiration method, n = 100). Explants from each group were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups: low caffeine (LCAF: 5 mg/L), moderate caffeine (MCAF: 10 mg/L), and high caffeine (HCAF: 15 mg/L) concentrations. RESULTS Cell viability was significantly higher in the low-caffeine group compared with the high-caffeine group at day 7 (P = .037) and in the low-caffeine group compared with the medium- and high-caffeine groups at day 21 (P ≤ .004). Analysis of ECM showed that all uninjured and control groups had significantly higher (P < .05) glycosaminoglycan concentrations compared with all injured groups. Furthermore, we observed a temporal, downward trend in proteoglycan to collagen ratio for the caffeine groups. CONCLUSIONS Caffeine intake may be a risk factor for IVD degeneration, especially in conjunction with disc injury. Mechanisms for caffeine associated disc degeneration may involve cell and ECM, and further studies should elucidate mechanistic pathways and potential benefits for caffeine restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin T. Raines
- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA,University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - James L. Cook
- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA,James L Cook, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, 1100 Virginia Avenue, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
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Baumgartner L, Sadowska A, Tío L, González Ballester MA, Wuertz-Kozak K, Noailly J. Evidence-Based Network Modelling to Simulate Nucleus Pulposus Multicellular Activity in Different Nutritional and Pro-Inflammatory Environments. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:734258. [PMID: 34858955 PMCID: PMC8631496 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.734258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Initiation of intervertebral disc degeneration is thought to be biologically driven. This reflects a process, where biochemical and mechanical stimuli affect cell activity (CA) that compromise the tissue strength over time. Experimental research enhanced our understanding about the effect of such stimuli on different CA, such as protein synthesis or mRNA expression. However, it is still unclear how cells respond to their native environment that consists of a “cocktail” of different stimuli that might locally vary. This work presents an interdisciplinary approach of experimental and in silico research to approximate Nucleus Pulposus CA within multifactorial biochemical environments. Thereby, the biochemical key stimuli glucose, pH, and the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL1β were considered that were experimentally shown to critically affect CA. To this end, a Nucleus Pulposus multicellular system was modelled. It integrated experimental findings from in vitro studies of human or bovine Nucleus Pulposus cells, to relate the individual effects of targeted stimuli to alterations in CA. Unknown stimulus-CA relationships were obtained through own experimental 3D cultures of bovine Nucleus Pulposus cells in alginate beads. Translation of experimental findings into suitable parameters for network modelling approaches was achieved thanks to a new numerical approach to estimate the individual sensitivity of a CA to each stimulus type. Hence, the effect of each stimulus type on a specific CA was assessed and integrated to approximate a multifactorial stimulus environment. Tackled CA were the mRNA expressions of Aggrecan, Collagen types I & II, MMP3, and ADAMTS4. CA was assessed for four different proinflammatory cell states; non-inflamed and inflamed for IL1β, TNF-α or both IL1β&TNF-α. Inflamed cell clusters were eventually predicted in a multicellular 3D agent-based model. Experimental results showed that glucose had no significant impact on proinflammatory cytokine or ADAMTS4 mRNA expression, whereas TNF-α caused a significant catabolic shift in most explored CA. In silico results showed that the presented methodology to estimate the sensitivity of a CA to a stimulus type importantly improved qualitative model predictions. However, more stimuli and/or further experimental knowledge need to be integrated, especially regarding predictions about the possible progression of inflammatory environments under adverse nutritional conditions. Tackling the multicellular level is a new and promising approach to estimate manifold responses of intervertebral disc cells. Such a top-down high-level network modelling approach allows to obtain information about relevant stimulus environments for a specific CA and could be shown to be suitable to tackle complex biological systems, including different proinflammatory cell states. The development of this methodology required a close interaction with experimental research. Thereby, specific experimental needs were derived from systematic in silico approaches and obtained results were directly used to enhance model predictions, which reflects a novelty in this research field. Eventually, the presented methodology provides modelling solutions suitable for multiscale approaches to contribute to a better understanding about dynamics over multiple spatial scales. Future work should focus on an amplification of the stimulus environment by integrating more key relevant stimuli, such as mechanical loading parameters, in order to better approximate native physiological environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Baumgartner
- BCN MedTech, Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Sadowska
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - L Tío
- IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - M A González Ballester
- BCN MedTech, Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
| | - K Wuertz-Kozak
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Rochester, NY, United States.,Schön Clinic Munich Harlaching, Spine Center, Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg (Austria), Munich, Germany
| | - J Noailly
- BCN MedTech, Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
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Mechanical Stretch Induces Annulus Fibrosus Cell Senescence through Activation of the RhoA/ROCK Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:5321121. [PMID: 34840974 PMCID: PMC8626192 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5321121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc is responsible for absorbing and transmitting mechanical compression. Under physiological conditions, the peripheral annulus fibrosus (AF) cells are subjected to different magnitudes of transverse mechanical stretch depending on the swelling of the central nucleus pulposus tissue. However, the biological behavior of AF cells under mechanical stretch is not well studied. Objective This study was performed to study the effects of mechanical tension on AF cell senescence and the potential signaling transduction pathway. Methods Rat AF cells were made to experience different magnitudes of mechanical stretch (2% elongation and 20% elongation for 4 hours every day at 1 Hz) in a 10-day experiment period. The inhibitor RKI-1447 of the Rho-associated coiled-coil–containing protein kinases (ROCK) was added along with culture medium to investigate its role. Cell proliferation, cell cycle, telomerase activity, and expression of senescence markers (p16 and p53) were analyzed. Results We found that 20% elongation significantly decreased cell proliferation, promoted G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, decreased telomerase activity, and upregulated mRNA/protein expression of p16 and p53. Moreover, the inhibitor RKI-1447 partly resisted effects of 20% elongation on these parameters of cell senescence. Conclusion High mechanical stretch obviously induces AF cell senescence through the RhoA/ROCK pathway. This study provides us a deeper understanding on the AF cell's behavior under mechanical stretch.
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Wang Z, Sato K, Nawrin SS, Widatalla NS, Kimura Y, Nagatomi R. Low Back Pain Exacerbation Is Predictable Through Motif Identification in Center of Pressure Time Series Recorded During Dynamic Sitting. Front Physiol 2021; 12:696077. [PMID: 34594234 PMCID: PMC8476954 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.696077] [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: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a common health problem - sitting on a chair for a prolonged time is considered a significant risk factor. Furthermore, the level of LBP may vary at different times of the day. However, the role of the time-sequence property of sitting behavior in relation to LBP has not been considered. During the dynamic sitting, small changes, such as slight or big sways, have been identified. Therefore, it is possible to identify the motif consisting of such changes, which may be associated with the incidence, exacerbation, or improvement of LBP. Method: Office chairs installed with pressure sensors were provided to a total of 22 office workers (age = 43.4 ± 8.3 years) in Japan. Pressure sensors data were collected during working days and hours (from morning to evening). The participants were asked to answer subjective levels of pain including LBP. Center of pressure (COP) was calculated from the load level, the changes in COP were analyzed by applying the Toeplitz inverse covariance-based clustering (TICC) analysis, COP changes were categorized into several states. Based on the states, common motifs were identified as a recurring sitting behavior pattern combination of different states by motif-aware state assignment (MASA). Finally, the identified motif was tested as a feature to infer the changing levels of LBP within a day. Changes in the levels of LBP from morning to evening were categorized as exacerbated, did not change, or improved based on the survey questions. Here, we present a novel approach based on social spider algorithm (SSA) and probabilistic neural network (PNN) for the prediction of LBP. The specificity and sensitivity of the LBP inference were compared among ten different models, including SSA-PNN. Result: There exists a common motif, consisting of stable sitting and slight sway. When LBP level improved toward the evening, the frequency of motif appearance was higher than when LBP was exacerbated (p < 0.05) or the level did not change. The performance of the SSA-PNN optimization was better than that of the other algorithms. Accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score were 59.20, 72.46, 40.94, and 63.24%, respectively. Conclusion: A lower frequency of a common motif of the COP dynamic changes characterized by stable sitting and slight sway was found to be associated with the exacerbation of LBP in the evening. LBP exacerbation is predictable by AI-based analysis of COP changes during the sitting behavior of the office workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziheng Wang
- Department of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Keizo Sato
- Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Saida Salima Nawrin
- Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Namareq Salah Widatalla
- Next Generation Biological Information Technology, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Kimura
- Next Generation Biological Information Technology, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical Care, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Nagatomi
- Department of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
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Cambria E, Heusser S, Scheuren AC, Tam WK, Karol AA, Hitzl W, Leung VY, Müller R, Ferguson SJ, Wuertz‐Kozak K. TRPV4 mediates cell damage induced by hyperphysiological compression and regulates COX2/PGE2 in intervertebral discs. JOR Spine 2021; 4:e1149. [PMID: 34611585 PMCID: PMC8479521 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant mechanical loading of the spine causes intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and low back pain. Current therapies do not target the mediators of the underlying mechanosensing and mechanotransduction pathways, as these are poorly understood. This study investigated the role of the mechanosensitive transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) ion channel in dynamic compression of bovine nucleus pulposus (NP) cells in vitro and mouse IVDs in vivo. METHODS Degenerative changes and the expression of the inflammatory mediator cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) were examined histologically in the IVDs of mouse tails that were dynamically compressed at a short repetitive hyperphysiological regime (vs sham). Bovine NP cells embedded in an agarose-collagen hydrogel were dynamically compressed at a hyperphysiological regime in the presence or absence of the selective TRPV4 antagonist GSK2193874. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release, as well as phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), were analyzed. Degenerative changes and COX2 expression were further evaluated in the IVDs of trpv4-deficient mice (vs wild-type; WT). RESULTS Dynamic compression caused IVD degeneration in vivo as previously shown but did not affect COX2 expression. Dynamic compression significantly augmented LDH and PGE2 releases in vitro, which were significantly reduced by TRPV4 inhibition. Moreover, TRPV4 inhibition during dynamic compression increased the activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK) MAPK pathway by 3.13-fold compared to non-compressed samples. Trpv4-deficient mice displayed mild IVD degeneration and decreased COX2 expression compared to WT mice. CONCLUSIONS TRPV4 therefore regulates COX2/PGE2 and mediates cell damage induced by hyperphysiological dynamic compression, possibly via ERK. Targeted TRPV4 inhibition or knockdown might thus constitute promising therapeutic approaches to treat patients suffering from IVD pathologies caused by aberrant mechanical stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cambria
- Institute for BiomechanicsETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Sally Heusser
- Institute for BiomechanicsETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | | | - Wai Kit Tam
- Department of Orthopaedics and TraumatologyThe University of Hong KongPokfulamHong Kong
| | - Agnieszka A. Karol
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit (MSRU), Department of Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (DMMD), Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Wolfgang Hitzl
- Research Office (Biostatistics)Paracelsus Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
- Department of Ophthalmology and OptometryParacelsus Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
- Research Program Experimental Ophthalmology and Glaucoma ResearchParacelsus Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
| | - Victor Y. Leung
- Department of Orthopaedics and TraumatologyThe University of Hong KongPokfulamHong Kong
| | - Ralph Müller
- Institute for BiomechanicsETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | | | - Karin Wuertz‐Kozak
- Institute for BiomechanicsETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringRochester Institute of TechnologyRochesterNew YorkUSA
- Spine Center, Schön Klinik München HarlachingAcademic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute of the Paracelsus Private Medical University Salzburg (Austria)MunichGermany
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Kanda Y, Yurube T, Morita Y, Takeoka Y, Kurakawa T, Tsujimoto R, Miyazaki K, Kakiuchi Y, Miyazaki S, Zhang Z, Takada T, Hoshino Y, Masuda K, Kuroda R, Kakutani K. Delayed notochordal cell disappearance through integrin α5β1 mechanotransduction during ex-vivo dynamic loading-induced intervertebral disc degeneration. J Orthop Res 2021; 39:1933-1944. [PMID: 33049071 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The loss of nucleus pulposus (NP) notochordal cells is one of the key initial hallmarks of age-related intervertebral disc degeneration. Although the transmembrane mechanoreceptor integrin α5β1 is important in the process of disc degeneration, the relationship between integrin α5β1 and notochordal cell disappearance remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the role of integrin α5β1 in the homeostasis of notochordal cells using an ex-vivo dynamic loading culture system that we developed. Rat tail functional spinal units (n = 80 from 40 rats) were cultured under unloading or 1.3-MPa, 1.0-Hz dynamic compressive loading for 48 or 144 h with or without an integrin α5β1 inhibitor. Disc histomorphology, cell viability, apoptosis, senescence, and phenotypic expression were investigated. Consequently, histological degenerative disc changes with decreased cell viability and increased cell apoptosis and senescence were observed with an extended loading duration. Immunofluorescence revealed that the expression of notochordal cell markers, CD24 and brachyury, and chondrocyte markers, collagen type II and SRY-box 9, declined with loading. In particular, reduction in notochordal cell marker expression was more dramatic than that in chondrocyte marker expression. Apoptotic terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling positivity was also higher in brachyury-positive notochordal cells. Furthermore, all these changes were delayed by inhibiting integrin α5β1. Findings of our dynamic loading regimen with a relatively high pressure suggest reproducibility of the cellularity and phenotypic disappearance of NP notochordal cells during adolescence, the susceptibility of notochordal cells to mechanical stimuli partially through the integrin α5β1 pathway, and future potential treatment of integrin regulation for intervertebral disc disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaro Kanda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takashi Yurube
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yusuke Morita
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Takeoka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takuto Kurakawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Ryu Tsujimoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Miyazaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yuji Kakiuchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Shingo Miyazaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Zhongying Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Toru Takada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe Hokuto Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yuichi Hoshino
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Koichi Masuda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Ryosuke Kuroda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Kakutani
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
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LePage EC, Stoker AM, Kuroki K, Cook JL. Effects of cyclic compression on intervertebral disc metabolism using a whole-organ rat tail model. J Orthop Res 2021; 39:1945-1954. [PMID: 33073417 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Many factors contribute to the development and progression of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. This study was designed to assess the effects of compressive load magnitude on IVD metabolism. It was hypothesized that as load magnitude increased, there would be a significant increase in release of proinflammatory and degradative biomarkers, and a significant decrease in tissue proteoglycan (GAG) and collagen contents compared with unloaded controls. IVD whole organ functional spinal units (FSU) consisting of cranial and caudal body halves, cartilage endplates, and IVD (n = 36) were harvested from the tails of six Sprague Dawley rats, and FSUs were cultured at 0.0 MPa, 0.5 MPa, or 1.0 MPa at 0.5 Hz for 3 days. After culture, media were collected for biomarker analysis and FSUs were analyzed for extracellular matrix composition. Significant differences were determined using a one-way analysis of variance or Kruskal-Wallis test and post hoc analyses. Media concentrations of IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-1β, and MMP-8 were significantly higher in the 0.5 MPa compared with the 0.0 MPa group. Media concentrations of PGE2 and TIMP-1 were significantly higher in the 1.0 MPa group compared with the 0.0 MPa group, and media PGE2 was significantly higher in the 1.0 MPa group compared with the 0.5 MPa group. Media GAG content was significantly higher in the 1.0 MPa group compared with the 0.0 MPa group, and percent GAG in the tissue was significantly lower in 0.5 MPa and 1.0 MPa groups compared with the 0.0 MPa group. Clinical Significance: These data suggest that there are magnitude-dependent inflammatory and degradative IVD responses to cyclic loading, which may contribute to IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma C LePage
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative Orthopaedics, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Aaron M Stoker
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative Orthopaedics, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Keiichi Kuroki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative Orthopaedics, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - James L Cook
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative Orthopaedics, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Hu T, Lo ACY. Collagen-Alginate Composite Hydrogel: Application in Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Sciences. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:1852. [PMID: 34199641 PMCID: PMC8199729 DOI: 10.3390/polym13111852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Alginate (ALG), a polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed, has been extensively investigated as a biomaterial not only in tissue engineering but also for numerous biomedical sciences owing to its wide availability, good compatibility, weak cytotoxicity, low cost, and ease of gelation. Nevertheless, alginate lacks cell-binding sites, limiting long-term cell survival and viability in 3D culture. Collagen (Col), a major component protein found in the extracellular matrix (ECM), exhibits excellent biocompatibility and weak immunogenicity. Furthermore, collagen contains cell-binding motifs, which facilitate cell attachment, interaction, and spreading, consequently maintaining cell viability and promoting cell proliferation. Recently, there has been a growing body of investigations into collagen-based hydrogel trying to overcome the poor mechanical properties of collagen. In particular, collagen-alginate composite (CAC) hydrogel has attracted much attention due to its excellent biocompatibility, gelling under mild conditions, low cytotoxicity, controllable mechanic properties, wider availability as well as ease of incorporation of other biomaterials and bioactive agents. This review aims to provide an overview of the properties of alginate and collagen. Moreover, the application of CAC hydrogel in tissue engineering and biomedical sciences is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy C. Y. Lo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
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Owen PJ, Hangai M, Kaneoka K, Rantalainen T, Belavy DL. Mechanical loading influences the lumbar intervertebral disc. A cross-sectional study in 308 athletes and 71 controls. J Orthop Res 2021; 39:989-997. [PMID: 32691862 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
There is evidence in animal populations that loading and exercise can positively impact the intervertebral disc (IVD). However, there is a paucity of information in humans. We examined the lumbar IVDs in 308 young athletes across six sporting groups (baseball, swimming, basketball, kendo, soccer, and running; mean age 19 years) and 71 nonathletic controls. IVD status was quantified via the ratio of IVD to vertebral body height (IVD hypertrophy) and ratio of signal intensity in the nucleus to that in the annulus signal (IVD nucleus hydration) on sagittal T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. P values were adjusted via the false discovery rate method to mitigate false positives. In examining the whole collective, compared to referents, there was evidence of IVD hypertrophy in basketball (P ≤ .029), swimming (P ≤ .010), soccer (P = .036), and baseball (P = .011) with greater IVD nucleus hydration in soccer (P = .007). After matching participants based on back-pain status and body height, basketball players showed evidence of IVD hypertrophy (P ≤ .043) and soccer players greater IVD nucleus hydration (P = .001) than referents. Greater career duration and training volume correlated with less (ie, worse) IVD nucleus hydration, but explained less than 1% of the variance in this parameter. In this young collective, increasing age was associated with increased IVD height. The findings suggest that basketball and soccer may be associated with beneficial adaptations in the IVDs in young athletes. In line with evidence on other tissues, such as muscle and bone, the current study adds to evidence that specific loading types may beneficially modulate lumbar IVD properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Owen
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mika Hangai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sports Medical Center, Japan Institute of Sports Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Kaneoka
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Timo Rantalainen
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Gerontology Research Centre and Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Daniel L Belavy
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Li Z, Wang J, Deng X, Huang D, Shao Z, Ma K. Compression stress induces nucleus pulposus cell autophagy by inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and activation of the JNK pathway. Connect Tissue Res 2021; 62:337-349. [PMID: 32180463 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2020.1736578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are related to compression stress-induced nucleus pulposus (NP) cell autophagy, but the specific mechanism is unknown in compression stress-induced intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Here, we discuss the specific molecular mechanism and explore whether ROS scavengers could be employed as specific drugs to inhibit compression stress-induced IVDD.Methods: Rat NP cells were exposed to 1.0 MPa compression and pretreatment with the ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC) or the JNK-selective inhibitor SP600125 not. Intracellular ROS production was monitored by confocal microscopy. Autophagy was detected by observing the NP cell ultrastructural features using TEM and examining autophagic vacuoles by flow cytometry. The levels of autophagy-associated molecules, the JNK pathway and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway were analyzed by western blotting.Results: Compression-mediated autophagy in rat NP cells was implicated in ROS generation. The ROS scavenger NAC could protect compression-induced NP cell injures by inhibiting ROS production. And SP600125, a JNK inhibitor, attenuated compression-induced NP cell autophagy. Additionally, this is the first report showing that compression induces autophagy in rat NP cells by impeding the compression-induced ROS dependent PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and the ROS independent activation of JNK pathway. And the involvement of JNK pathway was in different mechanism of action that when inhibited leaded to increased cell death, increased generation of ROS but decreased autophagy.Conclusions: These results show a new regulatory mechanism involving ROS-mediated autophagy in rat NP cells, which may provide ideas for drug development to improve compression stress-induced IVDD and help avoid eventual surgical treatment of IVD herniation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiliang Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Orthopedics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiangyu Deng
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghua Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zengwu Shao
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kaige Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Zhang W, Wang H, Yuan Z, Chu G, Sun H, Yu Z, Liang H, Liu T, Zhou F, Li B. Moderate mechanical stimulation rescues degenerative annulus fibrosus by suppressing caveolin-1 mediated pro-inflammatory signaling pathway. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:1395-1412. [PMID: 33867854 PMCID: PMC8040478 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.57774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical loading can induce or antagonize the extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, proliferation, migration, and inflammatory responses of annulus fibrosus cells (AFCs), depending on the loading mode and level. Caveolin-1 (Cav1), the core protein of caveolae, plays an important role in cellular mechanotransduction and inflammatory responses. In the present study, we presented that AFCs demonstrated different behaviors when subjected to cyclic tensile strain (CTS) for 24 h at a magnitude of 0%, 2%, 5% and 12%, respectively. It was found that 5% CTS had positive effects on cell proliferation, migration and anabolism, while 12% CTS had the opposite effects. Besides, cells exposed to interleukin-1β stimulus exhibited an increase expression in inflammatory genes, and the expression of these genes decreased after exposure to moderate mechanical loading with 5% CTS. In addition, 5% CTS decreased the level of Cav1 and integrin β1 and exhibited anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, the expression of integrin β1 and p-p65 increased in AFCs transfected with Cav1 plasmids. In vivo results revealed that moderate mechanical stimulation could recover the water content and morphology of the discs. In conclusion, moderate mechanical stimulation restrained Cav1-mediated signaling pathway and exhibited anti-inflammatory effects on AFCs. Together with in vivo results, this study expounds the underlying molecular mechanisms on the effect of moderate mechanical stimulation on intervertebral discs (IVDs) and may provide a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidong Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhangqin Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Genglei Chu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Heng Sun
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zilin Yu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huan Liang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Zhou
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,China Orthopaedic Regenerative Medicine Group (CORMed), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Kerr GJ, To B, White I, Millecamps M, Beier F, Grol MW, Stone LS, Séguin CA. Diet-induced obesity leads to behavioral indicators of pain preceding structural joint damage in wild-type mice. Arthritis Res Ther 2021; 23:93. [PMID: 33752736 PMCID: PMC7983381 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02463-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Obesity is one of the largest modifiable risk factors for the development of musculoskeletal diseases, including intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and back pain. Despite the clinical association, no studies have directly assessed whether diet-induced obesity accelerates IVD degeneration, back pain, or investigated the biological mediators underlying this association. In this study, we examine the effects of chronic consumption of a high-fat or high-fat/high-sugar (western) diet on the IVD, knee joint, and pain-associated outcomes. Methods Male C57BL/6N mice were randomized into one of three diet groups (chow control; high-fat; high-fat, high-sugar western diet) at 10 weeks of age and remained on the diet for 12, 24, or 40 weeks. At endpoint, animals were assessed for behavioral indicators of pain, joint tissues were collected for histological and molecular analysis, serum was collected to assess for markers of systemic inflammation, and IBA-1, GFAP, and CGRP were measured in spinal cords by immunohistochemistry. Results Animals fed obesogenic (high-fat or western) diets showed behavioral indicators of pain beginning at 12 weeks and persisting up to 40 weeks of diet consumption. Histological indicators of moderate joint degeneration were detected in the IVD and knee following 40 weeks on the experimental diets. Mice fed the obesogenic diets showed synovitis, increased intradiscal expression of inflammatory cytokines and circulating levels of MCP-1 compared to control. Linear regression modeling demonstrated that age and diet were both significant predictors of most pain-related behavioral outcomes, but not histopathological joint degeneration. Synovitis was associated with alterations in spontaneous activity. Conclusion Diet-induced obesity accelerates IVD degeneration and knee OA in mice; however, pain-related behaviors precede and are independent of histopathological structural damage. These findings contribute to understanding the source of obesity-related back pain and the contribution of structural IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey J Kerr
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Bethia To
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Ian White
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Magali Millecamps
- Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Frank Beier
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Matthew W Grol
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Laura S Stone
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cheryle A Séguin
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada.
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Xu H, Qi G, Li K, Yang K, Luo D, Cai Z. Impact of NF-κB pathway on the intervertebral disc inflammation and degeneration induced by over-mechanical stretching stress. JOURNAL OF INFLAMMATION-LONDON 2021; 18:6. [PMID: 33531032 PMCID: PMC7851949 DOI: 10.1186/s12950-021-00273-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD) contributes to low back pain. Increased cell apoptosis and inflammation, decreased extracellular matrix are associated with IVDD. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and inflammatory cytokines are implicated in the pathophysiology of IVDD. Methods In present study, we established a mechanical stretching stress-stimulated nucleus pulposus (NP) cell model. We knocked down NF-κB p65 by siRNA transfection to inhibit NF-κB and evaluated the effects of NF-κB inhibition on intervertebral disk degeneration. We applied the mechanical stretching stress on NP cells and inhibited NF-κB by siRNA, then evaluated the expression of inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), aggrecan, collagen II, and monitored viability and apoptosis of NP cells. Results Mechanical stretching stress induced the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, NF-κB, MMP-3 and MMP-13, while inhibited the production of aggrecan and collagen II in NP cells. Mechanical stretching stress decreased the cell viability and induced apoptosis in NP cells. Inhibition of NF-κB by siRNA suppressed the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, NF-κB, MMP-3 and MMP-13, while upregulated the expression of aggrecan and collagen II in NP cells. Conclusions Inhibition of NF-κB by knocking down p65 suppressed over-mechanical stretching stress-induced cell apoptosis and promoted viability in NP cell. Inhibition of NF-κB suppressed inflammation and degeneration of NP cells in IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Liaocheng People's Hospital, No. 67, Dongchang Xilu Road, 252000, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Guobao Qi
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Dongying People's Hospital, No. 317, Nanyi Road, 257091, Dongying, Shandong, China
| | - Kunpeng Li
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Liaocheng People's Hospital, No. 67, Dongchang Xilu Road, 252000, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Keshi Yang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Liaocheng People's Hospital, No. 67, Dongchang Xilu Road, 252000, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Dawei Luo
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Liaocheng People's Hospital, No. 67, Dongchang Xilu Road, 252000, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Zhongxu Cai
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Dongying People's Hospital, No. 317, Nanyi Road, 257091, Dongying, Shandong, China.
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Maria Luisa R, Luca C. The Effect of the Loading Rate on the Full-Field Strain Distribution on the Surface on the Intervertebral Discs. J Biomech Eng 2021; 143:1084894. [PMID: 32601688 DOI: 10.1115/1.4047662] [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: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Contrasting results are reported when the spine is tested at different strain rates. Tissue specimens from the ligaments or the intervertebral discs (IVD, including annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus) exhibit higher stiffness and lower dissipation at high strain rates. Counterintuitively, when spine segments are tested at high rates, the hysteresis area and loop width increase. It is unclear how the load is shared between the different structures at different loading rates. The hypotheses of this study were: (i) As the IVD stiffens at higher loading rates, the strain distribution around the disc would be different depending on the loading rate; (ii) Preconditioning attenuates the strain-rate dependency of the IVD, thus making differences in strain distribution smaller at the different rates. Six segments of three vertebrae (L4-L6) were extracted from porcine spines and tested in presso-flexion at different loading rates (reaching full load in 0.67, 6.7, and 67 s). The full-field strain maps were measured using digital image correlation on the surface of the IVDs from lateral. The posterior-to-anterior trends of the strain were computed in detail for each IVD, and compared between loading rates. The values and the direction of principal strain on the surface of the IVDs, vertebrae, and endplates remained unchanged at different rates. In the transition zone between IVD and vertebra, only slight differences due to the loading rate appeared but with no statistical significance. These findings will allow better understanding of the rate-dependent behavior and failure of the IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruspi Maria Luisa
- Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Engineering and Architecture, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Via Umberto Terracini 24-28, Bologna 40131, Italy
| | - Cristofolini Luca
- Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Engineering and Architecture, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Via Umberto Terracini 24-28, Bologna 40131, Italy
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Lee NN, Kramer JS, Stoker AM, Bozynski CC, Cook CR, Stannard JT, Choma TJ, Cook JL. Canine models of spine disorders. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1109. [PMID: 33392448 PMCID: PMC7770205 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neck and low back pain are common among the adult human population and impose large social and economic burdens on health care and quality of life. Spine-related disorders are also significant health concerns for canine companions with etiopathogeneses, clinical presentations, and diagnostic and therapeutic options that are very similar to their human counterparts. Historically, induced and spontaneous pathology in laboratory rodents, dogs, sheep, goats, pigs, and nonhuman primates have been used for study of human spine disorders. While each of these can serve as useful preclinical models, they all have inherent limitations. Spontaneously occurring spine disorders in dogs provide highly translatable data that overcome many of the limitations of other models and have the added benefit of contributing to veterinary healthcare as well. For this scoping review, peer-reviewed manuscripts were selected from PubMed and Google Scholar searches using keywords: "intervertebral disc," "intervertebral disc degeneration," "biomarkers," "histopathology," "canine," and "mechanism." Additional keywords such as "injury," "induced model," and "nucleus degeneration" were used to further narrow inclusion. The objectives of this review were to (a) outline similarities in key features of spine disorders between dogs and humans; (b) describe relevant canine models; and (c) highlight the applicability of these models for advancing translational research and clinical application for mechanisms of disease, diagnosis, prognosis, prevention, and treatment, with a focus on intervertebral disc degeneration. Best current evidence suggests that dogs share important anatomical, physiological, histological, and molecular components of spinal disorders in humans, such that induced and spontaneous canine models can be very effective for translational research. Taken together, the peer-reviewed literature supports numerous advantages for use of canine models for study of disorders of the spine when the potential limitations and challenges are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi N. Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Comparative Medicine ProgramUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Jacob S. Kramer
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Aaron M. Stoker
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Chantelle C. Bozynski
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Cristi R. Cook
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - James T. Stannard
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Theodore J. Choma
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - James L. Cook
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
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43
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Duclos SE, Denning SK, Towler C, Michalek AJ. Level-wise differences in in vivo lateral bending moment are associated with microstructural alterations in bovine caudal intervertebral discs. J Exp Biol 2020; 223:jeb229971. [PMID: 32958522 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.229971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Despite its common use as a laboratory model, little is known about the in vivo forces and moments applied to the bovine caudal intervertebral disc. Such aspects are crucial, as intervertebral disc tissue is known to remodel in response to repeated loading. We hypothesized that the magnitude of loading from muscle contraction during a typical lateral bending motion varies between caudal levels and is accompanied by variations in tissue microstructure. This hypothesis was tested by estimating level-wise forces and bending moments using two independent approaches: a dynamic analytical model of the motion and analysis of muscle cross-sections obtained via computed tomography. Microstructure was assessed by measuring the collagen fiber crimp period in the annulus fibrosus, and composition was assessed via quantitative histology. Both the analytical model and muscle cross-sections indicated peak bending moments of over 3 N m and peak compressive force of over 125 N at the c1c2 level, decreasing distally. There was a significant downward trend from proximal to distal in the outer annulus fibrosus collagen crimp period in the anterior and posterior regions only, suggesting remodeling in response to the highest lateral bending moments. There were no observed trends in composition. Our results suggest that although the proximal discs in the bovine tail are subjected to forces and moments from muscle contraction that are comparable (relative to disc size) to those acting on human lumbar discs, the distal discs are not. The resulting pattern of microstructural alterations suggests that level-wise differences should be considered when using bovine discs as a research model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Duclos
- Department of Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
| | - Samantha K Denning
- Department of Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
| | - Christopher Towler
- Department of Physical Therapy, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
| | - Arthur J Michalek
- Department of Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
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Virk S, Chen T, Meyers KN, Lafage V, Schwab F, Maher SA. Comparison of biomechanical studies of disc repair devices based on a systematic review. Spine J 2020; 20:1344-1355. [PMID: 32092506 PMCID: PMC9063717 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2020.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT A variety of solutions have been suggested as candidates for the repair of the annulus fibrosis (AF), with the ability to withstand physiological loads of paramount importance. PURPOSE The objective of our study was to capture the scope of biomechanical test models of AF repairs. We hypothesized that common test parameters would emerge. STUDY DESIGN Systematic Review METHODS: PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched for studies in English including the keywords "disc repair AND animal models," "disc repair AND cadaver spines," "intervertebral disc AND biomechanics," and "disc repair AND biomechanics." This list was further limited to those studies which included biomechanical results from annular repair in animal or human spinal segments from the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and/or coccygeal (tail) segments. For each study, the method used to measure the biomechanical property and biomechanical test results were documented. RESULTS A total of 2,607 articles were included within our initial analysis. Twenty-two articles met our inclusion criteria. Significant variability in terms of species tested, measurements used to quantify annular repair strength, and the method/direction/magnitude that forces were applied to a repaired annulus were found. Bovine intervertebral disc was most commonly used model (6 of 22 studies) and the most common mechanical property reported was the force required for failure of the disc repair device (15 tests). CONCLUSIONS Our hypothesis was rejected; no common features were identified across AF biomechanical models and as a result it was not possible to compare results of preclinical testing of annular repair devices. Our analysis suggests that a standardized biomechanical model that can be repeatably executed across multiple laboratories is required for the mechanical screening of candidates for AF repair. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE This literature review provides a summary of preclinical testing of annular repair devices for clinicians to properly evaluate the safety/efficacy of developing technology designed to repair annular defects after disc herniations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohrab Virk
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, New York, New York,Orthopedic Soft Tissue Research Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY
| | - Tony Chen
- Orthopedic Soft Tissue Research Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY,Department of Biomechanics, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, USA
| | | | - Virginie Lafage
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, New York, New York
| | - Frank Schwab
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, New York, New York
| | - Suzanne A. Maher
- Orthopedic Soft Tissue Research Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY,Department of Biomechanics, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, USA
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Cambria E, Arlt MJE, Wandel S, Krupkova O, Hitzl W, Passini FS, Hausmann ON, Snedeker JG, Ferguson SJ, Wuertz-Kozak K. TRPV4 Inhibition and CRISPR-Cas9 Knockout Reduce Inflammation Induced by Hyperphysiological Stretching in Human Annulus Fibrosus Cells. Cells 2020; 9:cells9071736. [PMID: 32708074 PMCID: PMC7407144 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical loading and inflammation interact to cause degenerative disc disease and low back pain (LBP). However, the underlying mechanosensing and mechanotransductive pathways are poorly understood. This results in untargeted pharmacological treatments that do not take the mechanical aspect of LBP into account. We investigated the role of the mechanosensitive ion channel TRPV4 in stretch-induced inflammation in human annulus fibrosus (AF) cells. The cells were cyclically stretched to 20% hyperphysiological strain. TRPV4 was either inhibited with the selective TRPV4 antagonist GSK2193874 or knocked out (KO) via CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. The gene expression, inflammatory mediator release and MAPK pathway activation were analyzed. Hyperphysiological cyclic stretching significantly increased the IL6, IL8, and COX2 mRNA, PGE2 release, and activated p38 MAPK. The TRPV4 pharmacological inhibition significantly attenuated these effects. TRPV4 KO further prevented the stretch-induced upregulation of IL8 mRNA and reduced IL6 and IL8 release, thus supporting the inhibition data. We provide novel evidence that TRPV4 transduces hyperphysiological mechanical signals into inflammatory responses in human AF cells, possibly via p38. Additionally, we show for the first time the successful gene editing of human AF cells via CRISPR-Cas9. The pharmacological inhibition or CRISPR-based targeting of TRPV4 may constitute a potential therapeutic strategy to tackle discogenic LBP in patients with AF injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cambria
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.J.E.A.); (S.W.); (O.K.); (F.S.P.); (J.G.S.); (S.J.F.); (K.W.-K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-446332901
| | - Matthias J. E. Arlt
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.J.E.A.); (S.W.); (O.K.); (F.S.P.); (J.G.S.); (S.J.F.); (K.W.-K.)
- Department of Orthopedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Wandel
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.J.E.A.); (S.W.); (O.K.); (F.S.P.); (J.G.S.); (S.J.F.); (K.W.-K.)
| | - Olga Krupkova
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.J.E.A.); (S.W.); (O.K.); (F.S.P.); (J.G.S.); (S.J.F.); (K.W.-K.)
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Spine Surgery, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Hitzl
- Research Office (Biostatistics), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Research Program Experimental Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fabian S. Passini
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.J.E.A.); (S.W.); (O.K.); (F.S.P.); (J.G.S.); (S.J.F.); (K.W.-K.)
- Department of Orthopedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Oliver N. Hausmann
- Neuro- and Spine Center, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, 6006 Lucerne, Switzerland;
- Medical Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jess G. Snedeker
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.J.E.A.); (S.W.); (O.K.); (F.S.P.); (J.G.S.); (S.J.F.); (K.W.-K.)
- Department of Orthopedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stephen J. Ferguson
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.J.E.A.); (S.W.); (O.K.); (F.S.P.); (J.G.S.); (S.J.F.); (K.W.-K.)
| | - Karin Wuertz-Kozak
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.J.E.A.); (S.W.); (O.K.); (F.S.P.); (J.G.S.); (S.J.F.); (K.W.-K.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY 14623, USA
- Spine Center, Schön Klinik München Harlaching, Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute of the Paracelsus Private Medical University Salzburg (Austria), 81547 Munich, Germany
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Advanced Strategies for the Regeneration of Lumbar Disc Annulus Fibrosus. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21144889. [PMID: 32664453 PMCID: PMC7402314 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Damage to the annulus fibrosus (AF), the outer region of the intervertebral disc (IVD), results in an undesirable condition that may accelerate IVD degeneration causing low back pain. Despite intense research interest, attempts to regenerate the IVD have failed so far and no effective strategy has translated into a successful clinical outcome. Of particular significance, the failure of strategies to repair the AF has been a major drawback in the regeneration of IVD and nucleus replacement. It is unlikely to secure regenerative mediators (cells, genes, and biomolecules) and artificial nucleus materials after injection with an unsealed AF, as IVD is exposed to significant load and large deformation during daily activities. The AF defects strongly change the mechanical properties of the IVD and activate catabolic routes that are responsible for accelerating IVD degeneration. Therefore, there is a strong need to develop effective therapeutic strategies to prevent or reconstruct AF damage to support operational IVD regenerative strategies and nucleus replacement. By the way of this review, repair and regenerative strategies for AF reconstruction, their current status, challenges ahead, and future outlooks were discussed.
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47
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Sadowska A, Altinay B, Hitzl W, Ferguson SJ, Wuertz-Kozak K. Hypo-Osmotic Loading Induces Expression of IL-6 in Nucleus Pulposus Cells of the Intervertebral Disc Independent of TRPV4 and TRPM7. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:952. [PMID: 32714187 PMCID: PMC7341822 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Painful intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is an age-related process characterized by reduced tissue osmolarity, increased catabolism of the extracellular matrix, and elevated levels of pro-inflammatory molecules. With the aging population and constantly rising treatment costs, it is of utmost importance to identify potential therapeutic targets and new pharmacological treatment strategies for low back pain. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are a family of Ca2+ permeable cell membrane receptors, which can be activated by multitude of stimuli and have recently emerged as contributors to joint disease, but were not investigated closer in the IVD. Based on the gene array screening, TRPC1, TRPM7, and TRPV4 were overall the most highly expressed TRP channels in bovine IVD cells. We demonstrated that TRPV4 gene expression was down-regulated in hypo-osmotic condition, whereas its Ca2+ flux increased. No significant differences in Ca2+ flux and gene expression were observed for TRPM7 between hypo- and iso-osmotic groups. Upon hypo-osmotic stimulation, we overall identified via RNA sequencing over 3,000 up- or down-regulated targets, from which we selected aggrecan, ADAMTS9, and IL-6 and investigated whether their altered gene expression is mediated through either the TRPV4 or TRPM7 channel, using specific activators and inhibitors (GSK1016790A/GSK2193874 for TRPV4 and Naltriben/NS8593 for TRPM7). GSK1016790A induced the expression of IL-6 under iso-osmotic condition, alike to hypo-osmotic stimulation alone, indicating that this effect might be TRPV4-mediated. However, using the TRPV4 blocker GSK2193874 failed to prevent the increase of IL-6 under hypo-osmotic condition. A treatment with TRPM7-activator did not cause significant changes in the gene expression of tested targets. In conclusion, while TRPV4 and TRPM7 are likely involved in osmosensing in the IVD, neither of them mediates hypo-osmotically-induced gene expression changes of aggrecan, ADAMTS9, and IL-6.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Birsen Altinay
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Hitzl
- Research Office (Biostatistics), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,Research Program Experimental Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Karin Wuertz-Kozak
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Tissue Regeneration & Mechanobiology Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Rochester, NY, United States.,Spine Center, Schön Clinic Munich Harlaching, Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute of the Salzburg Paracelsus Medical University, Munich, Germany
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48
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Gullbrand SE, Kim DH, Ashinsky BG, Bonnevie ED, Smith HE, Mauck RL. Restoration of physiologic loading modulates engineered intervertebral disc structure and function in an in vivo model. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1086. [PMID: 32613161 PMCID: PMC7323465 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue-engineered whole disc replacements are an emerging treatment strategy for advanced intervertebral disc degeneration. A challenge facing the translation of tissue-engineered disc replacement to clinical use are the opposing needs of initial immobilization to advantage integration contrasted with physiologic loading and its anabolic effects. Here, we utilize our established rat tail model of tissue engineered disc replacement with external fixation to study the effects of remobilization at two time points postimplantation on engineered disc structure, composition, and function. Our results suggest that the restoration of mechanical loading following immobilization enhanced collagen and proteoglycan content within the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus of the engineered discs, in addition to improving the integration of the endplate region of the construct with native bone. Despite these benefits, angulation of the vertebral bodies at the implanted level occurred following remobilization at both early and late time points, reducing tensile failure properties in the remobilized groups compared to the fixed group. These results demonstrate the necessity of restoring physiologic mechanical loading to engineered disc implants in vivo, and the need to transition toward their evaluation in larger animal models with more human-like anatomy and motion compared to the rat tail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E. Gullbrand
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research CenterCorporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical CenterPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Dong Hwa Kim
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research CenterCorporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical CenterPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Beth G. Ashinsky
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research CenterCorporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical CenterPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health SystemsDrexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Edward D. Bonnevie
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research CenterCorporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical CenterPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Harvey E. Smith
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research CenterCorporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical CenterPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Robert L. Mauck
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research CenterCorporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical CenterPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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49
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Cazzanelli P, Wuertz-Kozak K. MicroRNAs in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration, Apoptosis, Inflammation, and Mechanobiology. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103601. [PMID: 32443722 PMCID: PMC7279351 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a multifactorial pathological process associated with low back pain, the leading cause of years lived in disability worldwide. Key characteristics of the pathological changes connected with degenerative disc disease (DDD) are the degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM), apoptosis and senescence, as well as inflammation. The impact of nonphysiological mechanical stresses on IVD degeneration and inflammation, the mechanisms of mechanotransduction, and the role of mechanosensitive miRNAs are of increasing interest. As post-transcriptional regulators, miRNAs are known to affect the expression of 30% of proteincoding genes and numerous intracellular processes. The dysregulation of miRNAs is therefore associated with various pathologies, including degenerative diseases such as DDD. This review aims to give an overview of the current status of miRNA research in degenerative disc pathology, with a special focus on the involvement of miRNAs in ECM degradation, apoptosis, and inflammation, as well as mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Cazzanelli
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Rochester, NY 14623, USA;
| | - Karin Wuertz-Kozak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Rochester, NY 14623, USA;
- Schön Clinic Munich Harlaching, Spine Center, Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg (Austria), 81547 Munich, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-585-475-7355
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50
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Huang D, Peng Y, Li Z, Chen S, Deng X, Shao Z, Ma K. Compression-induced senescence of nucleus pulposus cells by promoting mitophagy activation via the PINK1/PARKIN pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:5850-5864. [PMID: 32281308 PMCID: PMC7214186 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The current research aimed to explore the possible relationship between PINK1/PARKIN-mediated mitophagy and the compression-induced senescence of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). Therefore, the stages of senescence in NPCs were measured under compression lasting 0, 24 and 48 hours. The mitophagy-related markers, autophagosomes and mitochondrial membrane potential were tested to determine the levels of PINK1/PARKIN-mediated mitophagy under compression. The PINK1 and PARKIN levels were also measured by immunohistochemistry of human and rat intervertebral disc (IVD) tissues taken at different degenerative stages. A specific mitophagy inhibitor, cyclosporine A (CSA) and a constructed PINK1-shRNA were used to explore the relationship between mitophagy and senescence by down-regulating the PINK1/PARKIN-mediated mitophagy levels. Our results indicated that compression significantly enhanced the senescence of NPCs in a time-dependent manner. Also, PINK1/PARKIN-mediated mitophagy was found to be activated by the extended duration of compression on NPCs as well as the increased degenerative stages of IVD tissues. After inhibition of PINK1/PARKIN-mediated mitophagy by CSA and PINK1-shRNA, the senescence of NPCs induced by compression was strongly rescued. Hence, the excessive degradation of mitochondria in NPCs by mitophagy under continuous compression may accelerate the senescence of NPCs. Regulating PINK1/PARKIN-mediated mitophagy might be a potential therapeutic treatment for IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghua Huang
- Department of OrthopaedicsUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of OrthopedicsMusculoskeletal Tumor CenterThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Yizhong Peng
- Department of OrthopaedicsUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Zhiliang Li
- Department of OrthopaedicsUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Sheng Chen
- Department of OrthopaedicsUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xiangyu Deng
- Department of OrthopaedicsUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Zengwu Shao
- Department of OrthopaedicsUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Kaige Ma
- Department of OrthopaedicsUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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