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Gansau J, McDonnell EE, Buckley CT. Development and characterization of antacid microcapsules to buffer the acidic intervertebral disc microenvironment. J Biomed Mater Res A 2024. [PMID: 38817021 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
During intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, microenvironmental challenges such as decreasing levels of glucose, oxygen, and pH play crucial roles in cell survival and matrix turnover. Antacids, such as Mg(OH)2 and CaCO3, entrapped in microcapsules are capable of neutralizing acidic microenvironments in a controlled fashion and therefore may offer the potential to improve the acidic niche of the degenerated IVD and enhance cell-based regeneration strategies. The objectives of this work were, first, to develop and characterize antacid microcapsules and assess their neutralization capacity in an acidic microenvironment and, second, to combine antacid microcapsules with cellular microcapsules in a hybrid gel system to investigate their neutralization effect as a potential therapeutic in a disc explant model. To achieve this, we screened five different pH- neutralizing agents (Al(OH)3, Mg(OH)2, CaCO3, and HEPES) in terms of their pH neutralization capacities, with Mg(OH)2 or CaCO3 being carried forward for further investigation. Antacid-alginate microcapsules were formed at different concentrations using the electrohydrodynamic spraying process and assessed in terms of size, buffering kinetics, cell compatibility, and cytotoxicity. Finally, the combination of cellular microcapsules and antacid capsules was examined in a bovine disc explant model under physiological degenerative conditions. Overall, CaCO3 was found to be superior in terms of neutralization capacities, release kinetics, and cellular response. Specifically, CaCO3 elevated the acidic pH to neutral levels and is estimated to be maintained for several weeks based on Ca2+ release. Using a disc explant model, it was demonstrated that CaCO3 microcapsules were capable of increasing the local pH within the core of a hybrid cellular gel system. This work highlights the potential of antacid microcapsules to positively alter the challenging acidic microenvironment conditions typically observed in degenerative disc disease, which may be used in conjunction with cell therapies to augment regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Gansau
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Emily E McDonnell
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Conor T Buckley
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland & Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Tissue Engineering Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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2
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Bermudez-Lekerika P, Crump KB, Wuertz-Kozak K, Le Maitre CL, Gantenbein B. Sulfated Hydrogels as Primary Intervertebral Disc Cell Culture Systems. Gels 2024; 10:330. [PMID: 38786247 PMCID: PMC11121347 DOI: 10.3390/gels10050330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The negatively charged extracellular matrix plays a vital role in intervertebral disc tissues, providing specific cues for cell maintenance and tissue hydration. Unfortunately, suitable biomimetics for intervertebral disc regeneration are lacking. Here, sulfated alginate was investigated as a 3D culture material due to its similarity to the charged matrix of the intervertebral disc. Precursor solutions of standard alginate, or alginate with 0.1% or 0.2% degrees of sulfation, were mixed with primary human nucleus pulposus cells, cast, and cultured for 14 days. A 0.2% degree of sulfation resulted in significantly decreased cell density and viability after 7 days of culture. Furthermore, a sulfation-dependent decrease in DNA content and metabolic activity was evident after 14 days. Interestingly, no significant differences in cell density and viability were observed between surface and core regions for sulfated alginate, unlike in standard alginate, where the cell number was significantly higher in the core than in the surface region. Due to low cell numbers, phenotypic evaluation was not achieved in sulfated alginate biomaterial. Overall, standard alginate supported human NP cell growth and viability superior to sulfated alginate; however, future research on phenotypic properties is required to decipher the biological properties of sulfated alginate in intervertebral disc cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Bermudez-Lekerika
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (P.B.-L.); (K.B.C.)
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB), University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Katherine B. Crump
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (P.B.-L.); (K.B.C.)
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB), University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Karin Wuertz-Kozak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY 14623, USA;
- Spine Center, Schön Klinik München Harlaching Academic Teaching Hospital, Spine Research Institute, Paracelsus Private Medical University Salzburg (Austria), 81547 Munich, Germany
| | - Christine L. Le Maitre
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK;
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (P.B.-L.); (K.B.C.)
- Inselspital, Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Traumatology, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
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Cherif H, Li L, Snuggs J, Li X, Sammon C, Li J, Beckman L, Haglund L, Le Maitre CL. Injectable hydrogel induces regeneration of naturally degenerate human intervertebral discs in a loaded organ culture model. Acta Biomater 2024; 176:201-220. [PMID: 38160855 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.12.041] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Low back pain resulting from disc degeneration is a leading cause of disability worldwide. However, to date few therapies target the cause and fail to repair the intervertebral disc (IVD). This study investigates the ability of an injectable hydrogel (NPgel), to inhibit catabolic protein expression and promote matrix expression in human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells within a tissue explant culture model isolated from degenerate discs. Furthermore, the injection capacity of NPgel into naturally degenerate whole human discs, effects on mechanical function, and resistance to extrusion during loading were investigated. Finally, the induction of potential regenerative effects in a physiologically loaded human organ culture system was investigated following injection of NPgel with or without bone marrow progenitor cells. Injection of NPgel into naturally degenerate human IVDs increased disc height and Young's modulus, and was retained during extrusion testing. Injection into cadaveric discs followed by culture under physiological loading increased MRI signal intensity, restored natural biomechanical properties and showed evidence of increased anabolism and decreased catabolism with tissue integration observed. These results provide essential proof of concept data supporting the use of NPgel as an injectable therapy for disc regeneration. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Low back pain resulting from disc degeneration is a leading cause of disability worldwide. However, to date few therapies target the cause and fail to repair the intervertebral disc. This study investigated the potential regenerative properties of an injectable hydrogel system (NPgel) within human tissue samples. To mimic the human in vivo conditions and the unique IVD niche, a dynamically loaded intact human disc culture system was utilised. NPgel improved the biomechanical properties, increased MRI intensity and decreased degree of degeneration. Furthermore, NPgel induced matrix production and decreased catabolic factors by the native cells of the disc. This manuscript provides evidence for the potential use of NPgel as a regenerative biomaterial for intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hosni Cherif
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Li Li
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Joseph Snuggs
- Oncology and Metabolism Department, Medical School, & INSIGNEO Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK; Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0C3, Canada
| | - Christopher Sammon
- Materials and Engineering Research Institute, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jianyu Li
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada; Department of Mechanical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0C3, Canada; Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Lorne Beckman
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Lisbet Haglund
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada; Shriners Hospital for Children, Montreal, QC H4A 0A9, Canada
| | - Christine L Le Maitre
- Oncology and Metabolism Department, Medical School, & INSIGNEO Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK; Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK.
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Huang G, Shen H, Xu K, Shen Y, Jiale Jin, Chu G, Xing H, Feng Z, Wang Y. Single-Cell Microgel Encapsulation Improves the Therapeutic Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Treating Intervertebral Disc Degeneration via Inhibiting Pyroptosis. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2024; 7:0311. [PMID: 38371273 PMCID: PMC10871001 DOI: 10.34133/research.0311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
While mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) shows great potentials in treating intervertebral disc degeneration, most MSC die soon after intradiscal transplantation, resulting in inferior therapeutic efficacy. Currently, bulk hydrogels are the common solution to improve MSC survival in tissues, although hydrogel encapsulation impairs MSC migration and disrupts extracellular microenvironment. Cell hydrogel encapsulation has been proposed to overcome the limitation of traditional bulk hydrogels, yet this technique has not been used in treating disc degeneration. Using a layer-by-layer self-assembly technique, we fabricated alginate and gelatin microgel to encapsulate individual MSC for treating disc degeneration. The small size of microgel allowed intradiscal injection of coated MSC. We demonstrated that pyroptosis was involved in MSC death under oxidative stress stimulation, and microgel coating suppressed pyroptosis activation by maintaining mitochondria homeostasis. Microgel coating protected MSC in the harsh disc microenvironment, while retaining vital cellular functions such as migration, proliferation, and differentiation. In a rat model of disc degeneration, coated MSC exhibits prolonged retention in the disc and better efficacy of attenuating disc degeneration, as compared with bare MSC treatment alone. Further, microgel-coated MSC exhibited improved therapeutic effects in treating disc degeneration via suppressing the activation of pyroptosis in the disc. For the first time, microgel-encapsulated MSC was used to treat disc degeneration and obtain encouraging outcomes. The developed biocompatible single-cell hydrogel is an effective strategy to protect MSC and maintain cellular functions and may be an efficacious approach to improving the efficacy of MSC therapy in treating disc degeneration. The objective of this study is to improve the efficacy of cell therapy for treating disc degeneration using single-cell hydrogel encapsulation and further to understand related cytoprotective mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanrui Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital,
Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Haotian Shen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital,
Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Kaiwang Xu
- Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yifan Shen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital,
Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jiale Jin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital,
Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Guangyu Chu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital,
Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Hongyuan Xing
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital,
Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Zhiyun Feng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital,
Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital,
Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
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Murphy K, Lufkin T, Kraus P. Development and Degeneration of the Intervertebral Disc-Insights from Across Species. Vet Sci 2023; 10:540. [PMID: 37756062 PMCID: PMC10534844 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10090540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Back pain caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration has a major socio-economic impact in humans, yet historically has received minimal attention in species other than humans, mice and dogs. However, a general growing interest in this unique organ prompted the expansion of IVD research in rats, rabbits, cats, horses, monkeys, and cows, further illuminating the complex nature of the organ in both healthy and degenerative states. Application of recent biotechnological advancements, including single cell RNA sequencing and complex data analysis methods has begun to explain the shifting inflammatory signaling, variation in cellular subpopulations, differential gene expression, mechanical loading, and metabolic stresses which contribute to age and stress related degeneration of the IVD. This increase in IVD research across species introduces a need for chronicling IVD advancements and tissue biomarkers both within and between species. Here we provide a comprehensive review of recent single cell RNA sequencing data alongside existing case reports and histo/morphological data to highlight the cellular complexity and metabolic challenges of this unique organ that is of structural importance for all vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Lufkin
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA;
| | - Petra Kraus
- Department of Biology, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA;
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6
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Lin SS, Ueng SWN, Chong KY, Chan YS, Tsai TT, Yuan LJ, Liu SJ, Yang CY, Hsiao HY, Hsueh YJ, Chen CA, Niu CC. Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Intervention on the Degenerated Intervertebral Disc: From Molecular Mechanisms to Animal Models. Cells 2023; 12:2111. [PMID: 37626921 PMCID: PMC10453512 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162111] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA (miRNA) 107 expression is downregulated but Wnt3a protein and β-catenin are upregulated in degenerated intervertebral disc (IVD). We investigated mir-107/Wnt3a-β-catenin signaling in vitro and in vivo following hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) intervention. Our results showed 96 miRNAs were upregulated and 66 downregulated in degenerated nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) following HBO treatment. The 3' untranslated region (UTR) of the Wnt3a mRNA contained the "seed-matched-sequence" for miR-107. MiR-107 was upregulated and a marked suppression of Wnt3a was observed simultaneously in degenerated NPCs following HBO intervention. Knockdown of miR-107 upregulated Wnt3a expression in hyperoxic cells. HBO downregulated the protein expression of Wnt3a, phosphorylated LRP6, and cyclin D1. There was decreased TOP flash activity following HBO intervention, whereas the FOP flash activity was not affected. HBO decreased the nuclear translocation of β-catenin and decreased the secretion of MMP-3 and -9 in degenerated NPCs. Moreover, rabbit serum KS levels and the stained area for Wnt3a and β-catenin in repaired cartilage tended to be lower in the HBO group. We observed that HBO inhibits Wnt3a/β-catenin signaling-related pathways by upregulating miR-107 expression in degenerated NPCs. HBO may play a protective role against IVD degeneration and could be used as a future therapeutic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song-Shu Lin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (S.-S.L.); (Y.-S.C.); (T.-T.T.); (C.-Y.Y.); (C.-A.C.)
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Laboratory, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Steve W. N. Ueng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (S.-S.L.); (Y.-S.C.); (T.-T.T.); (C.-Y.Y.); (C.-A.C.)
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Laboratory, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Kowit-Yu Chong
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Laboratory, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Sheng Chan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (S.-S.L.); (Y.-S.C.); (T.-T.T.); (C.-Y.Y.); (C.-A.C.)
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Laboratory, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Tsung-Ting Tsai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (S.-S.L.); (Y.-S.C.); (T.-T.T.); (C.-Y.Y.); (C.-A.C.)
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Laboratory, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Li-Jen Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 82445, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jung Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Chuen-Yung Yang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (S.-S.L.); (Y.-S.C.); (T.-T.T.); (C.-Y.Y.); (C.-A.C.)
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Laboratory, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Hui-Yi Hsiao
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-Y.H.); (Y.-J.H.)
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Hsueh
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-Y.H.); (Y.-J.H.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chung-An Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (S.-S.L.); (Y.-S.C.); (T.-T.T.); (C.-Y.Y.); (C.-A.C.)
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Laboratory, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Chi-Chien Niu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (S.-S.L.); (Y.-S.C.); (T.-T.T.); (C.-Y.Y.); (C.-A.C.)
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Laboratory, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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Wu J, Yu L, Liu Y, Xiao B, Ye X, Zhao H, Xi Y, Shi Z, Wang W. Hypoxia regulates adipose mesenchymal stem cells proliferation, migration, and nucleus pulposus-like differentiation by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress via the HIF-1α pathway. J Orthop Surg Res 2023; 18:339. [PMID: 37158945 PMCID: PMC10169485 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-03818-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hypoxia can promote stem cell proliferation and migration through HIF-1α. Hypoxia can regulate cellular endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Some studies have reported the relationship among hypoxia, HIF-α, and ER stress, however, while little is known about HIF-α and ER stress in ADSCs under hypoxic conditions. The purpose of the study was to investigate the role and relationship of hypoxic conditions, HIF-1α and ER stress in regulating adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) proliferation, migration, and NPC-like differentiation. METHOD ADSCs were pretreated with hypoxia, HIF-1α gene transfection, and HIF-1α gene silence. The ADSCs proliferation, migration, and NPC-like differentiation were assessed. The expression of HIF-1α in ADSCs was regulated; then, the changes of ER stress level in ADSCs were observed to investigate the relationship between ER stress and HIF-1α in ADSCs under hypoxic conditions. RESULT The cell proliferation and migration assay results show that hypoxia and HIF-1α overexpression can significantly increase the ADSCs proliferation and migration, while HIF-1α inhibition can significantly decrease the ADSCs proliferation and migration. The HIF-1α and co-cultured with NPCs played an important role in the directional differentiation of ADSCs into NPCs. The hypoxia-regulated ER stress in ADSCs through the HIF-1α pathway, thereby regulating the cellular state of ADSCs, was also observed. CONCLUSION Hypoxia and HIF-1α play important roles in proliferation, migration, and NPC-like differentiation of ADSCs. This study provides preliminary evidence that HIF-1α-regulated ER stress thus affects ADSCs proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Therefore, HIF-1α and ER may serve as key points to improve the efficacy of ADSCs in treating disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxin Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, No. 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Neurosurgery, No. 906 Hospital of the People's Liberation Army, Ningbo, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin First Central Hospital, School of Medicine, Nankai University, No. 24 Kangfu Road, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Xiao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojian Ye
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tongren Hospital of Shanghai Jiaotong University, No. 1111, Xianxia Road, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin First Central Hospital, School of Medicine, Nankai University, No. 24 Kangfu Road, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanhai Xi
- Department of Orthopaedics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhicai Shi
- Department of Orthopaedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, No. 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiheng Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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8
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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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9
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Brenneis M, Jenei-Lanzl Z, Kupka J, Braun S, Junker M, Zaucke F, Rickert M, Meurer A. Correlation between Adrenoceptor Expression and Clinical Parameters in Degenerated Lumbar Intervertebral Discs. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315358. [PMID: 36499685 PMCID: PMC9739018 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advanced knowledge of the cellular and biomechanical processes of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), the trigger and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Since the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) has been shown to exhibit catabolic effects in osteoarthritis pathogenesis, it is attractive to speculate that it also influences IVDD. Therefore, we explored the adrenoceptor (AR) expression profile in human IVDs and correlated it with clinical parameters of patients. IVD samples were collected from n = 43 patients undergoing lumbar spinal fusion surgery. AR gene expression was analyzed by semi-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Clinical parameters as well as radiological Pfirrmann and Modic classification were collected and correlated with AR expression levels. In total human IVD homogenates α1A-, α1B-, α2A-, α2B-, α2C-, β1- and β2-AR genes were expressed. Expression of α1A- (r = 0.439), α2A- (r = 0.346) and β2-AR (r = 0.409) showed a positive and significant correlation with Pfirrmann grade. α1A-AR expression was significantly decreased in IVD tissue of patients with adjacent segment disease (p = 0.041). The results of this study indicate that a relationship between IVDD and AR expression exists. Thus, the SNS and its neurotransmitters might play a role in IVDD pathogenesis. The knowledge of differential AR expression in different etiologies could contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches for IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Brenneis
- Department of Orthopedics (Friedrichsheim), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
- Correspondence: or
| | - Zsuzsa Jenei-Lanzl
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Research Unit for Osteoarthritis, Department of Orthopedics (Friedrichsheim), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Johannes Kupka
- Department of Orthopedics (Friedrichsheim), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sebastian Braun
- Department of Orthopedics (Friedrichsheim), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marius Junker
- Department of Orthopedics (Friedrichsheim), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Frank Zaucke
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Research Unit for Osteoarthritis, Department of Orthopedics (Friedrichsheim), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marcus Rickert
- Department of Orthopedics (Friedrichsheim), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andrea Meurer
- Department of Orthopedics (Friedrichsheim), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
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10
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Li Z, Wu Y, Tan G, Xu Z, Xue H. Exosomes and exosomal miRNAs: A new therapy for intervertebral disc degeneration. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:992476. [PMID: 36160436 PMCID: PMC9492865 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.992476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain has been found as a major cause of global disease burden and disability. Intervertebral disc degeneration is recognized as the vital factor causing low back pain. Intervertebral disc degeneration has a complex mechanism and cannot be avoided. Traditional strategies for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration cannot meet the needs of intervertebral disc regeneration, so novel treatment methods are urgently required. Exosomes refer to extracellular vesicles that can be released by most cells, and play major roles in intercellular material transport and information transmission. MicroRNAs have been identified as essential components in exosomes, which can be selectively ingested by exosomes and delivered to receptor cells for the regulation of the physiological activities and functions of receptor cells. Existing studies have progressively focused on the role of exosomes and exosomal microRNAs in the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. The focus on this paper is placed on the changes of microenvironment during intervertebral disc degeneration and the biogenesis and mechanism of action of exosomes and exosomal microRNAs. The research results and deficiencies of exosomes and exosomal microRNAs in the regulation of apoptosis, extracellular matrix homeostasis, inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and angiogenesis in intervertebral disc degeneration are primarily investigated. The aim of this paper is to identify the latest research results, potential applications and challenges of this emerging treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Li
- First College of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medcial Unversity, Jinan, China
| | - Guoqing Tan
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhanwang Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Haipeng Xue
- First College of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Haipeng Xue,
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11
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Salzer E, Mouser VHM, Tryfonidou MA, Ito K. A bovine nucleus pulposus explant culture model. J Orthop Res 2022; 40:2089-2102. [PMID: 34812520 PMCID: PMC9542046 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Low back pain is a global health problem that is frequently caused by intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Sulfated glycosaminoglycans (sGAGs) give the healthy nucleus pulposus (NP) a high fixed charge density (FCD), which creates an osmotic pressure that enables the disc to withstand high compressive forces. However, during IVDD sGAG reduction in the NP compromises biomechanical function. The aim of this study was to develop an ex vivo NP explant model with reduced sGAG content and subsequently investigate biomechanical restoration via injection of proteoglycan-containing notochordal cell-derived matrix (NCM). Bovine coccygeal NP explants were cultured in a bioreactor chamber and sGAG loss was induced by chondroitinase ABC (chABC) and cultured for up to 14 days. Afterwards, diurnal loading was studied, and explant restoration was investigated via injection of NCM. Explants were analyzed via histology, biochemistry, and biomechanical testing via stress relaxation tests and height measurements. ChABC injection induced dose-dependent sGAG reduction on Day 3, however, no dosing effects were detected after 7 and 14 days. Diurnal loading reduced sGAG loss after injection of chABC. NCM did not show an instant biomechanical (equilibrium pressure) or biochemical (FCD) restoration, as the injected fixed charges leached into the medium, however, NCM stimulated proliferation and increased Alcian blue staining intensity and matrix organization. NCM has biological repair potential and biomaterial/NCM combinations, which could better entrap NCM within the NP tissue, should be investigated in future studies. Concluding, chABC induced progressive, time-, dose- and loading-dependent sGAG reduction that led to a loss of biomechanical function. Keywords biomechanics | intervertebral disc | matrix degradation | low back pain | proteoglycans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Salzer
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenNoord‐BrabantThe Netherlands
| | - Vivian H. M. Mouser
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenNoord‐BrabantThe Netherlands
| | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Keita Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenNoord‐BrabantThe Netherlands
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12
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Bermudez-Lekerika P, Crump KB, Tseranidou S, Nüesch A, Kanelis E, Alminnawi A, Baumgartner L, Muñoz-Moya E, Compte R, Gualdi F, Alexopoulos LG, Geris L, Wuertz-Kozak K, Le Maitre CL, Noailly J, Gantenbein B. Immuno-Modulatory Effects of Intervertebral Disc Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:924692. [PMID: 35846355 PMCID: PMC9277224 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.924692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain is a highly prevalent, chronic, and costly medical condition predominantly triggered by intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). IDD is often caused by structural and biochemical changes in intervertebral discs (IVD) that prompt a pathologic shift from an anabolic to catabolic state, affecting extracellular matrix (ECM) production, enzyme generation, cytokine and chemokine production, neurotrophic and angiogenic factor production. The IVD is an immune-privileged organ. However, during degeneration immune cells and inflammatory factors can infiltrate through defects in the cartilage endplate and annulus fibrosus fissures, further accelerating the catabolic environment. Remarkably, though, catabolic ECM disruption also occurs in the absence of immune cell infiltration, largely due to native disc cell production of catabolic enzymes and cytokines. An unbalanced metabolism could be induced by many different factors, including a harsh microenvironment, biomechanical cues, genetics, and infection. The complex, multifactorial nature of IDD brings the challenge of identifying key factors which initiate the degenerative cascade, eventually leading to back pain. These factors are often investigated through methods including animal models, 3D cell culture, bioreactors, and computational models. However, the crosstalk between the IVD, immune system, and shifted metabolism is frequently misconstrued, often with the assumption that the presence of cytokines and chemokines is synonymous to inflammation or an immune response, which is not true for the intact disc. Therefore, this review will tackle immunomodulatory and IVD cell roles in IDD, clarifying the differences between cellular involvements and implications for therapeutic development and assessing models used to explore inflammatory or catabolic IVD environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Bermudez-Lekerika
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone and Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Katherine B Crump
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone and Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Andrea Nüesch
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Exarchos Kanelis
- ProtATonce Ltd., Athens, Greece.,School of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Zografou, Greece
| | - Ahmad Alminnawi
- GIGA In Silico Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.,Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | - Roger Compte
- Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, St Thomas' Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Gualdi
- Institut Hospital Del Mar D'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Leonidas G Alexopoulos
- ProtATonce Ltd., Athens, Greece.,School of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Zografou, Greece
| | - Liesbet Geris
- GIGA In Silico Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.,Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Biomechanics Research Unit, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karin Wuertz-Kozak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, United States.,Spine Center, Schön Klinik München Harlaching Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute of the Paracelsus Private Medical University Salzburg (Austria), Munich, Germany
| | - Christine L Le Maitre
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | | | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone and Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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13
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Effects of Changes in Osmolarity on the Biological Activity of Human Normal Nucleus Pulposus Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:1121064. [PMID: 35502327 PMCID: PMC9056247 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1121064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The expansion and maintenance of the NPMSC (nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cell) phenotype are considered as potential therapeutic tools for clinical applications in intervertebral disc tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. However, the harsh microenvironment within the intervertebral disc is the main limitation of its regeneration. The osmolarity of the intervertebral disc is higher than that of other tissues, which has an important influence on the biological characteristics of NPMSCs. In this study, we observed the effect of different osmolarities on the biological characteristics of human normal NPMSCs cultured in vitro and explored the role of osmolarity in intervertebral disc degeneration. Our data demonstrated that the change in osmotic pressure has an important effect on the biological activity of NPMSCs, and this effect may occur through the P16INK4A/Rb pathway. This study provides a theoretical basis for the future treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration.
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14
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Acidic and basic self-assembling peptide and peptide-graphene oxide hydrogels: characterisation and effect on encapsulated nucleus pulposus cells. Acta Biomater 2022; 143:145-158. [PMID: 35196554 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular pH can have a profound effect on cell metabolism, gene and protein expression. Nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, for example, under acidic conditions accelerate the production of degradative enzymes and pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading ultimately to intervertebral disc degeneration, a major cause of back pain. Self-assembling peptide hydrogels constitute a well-established class of biomaterials that could be exploited as pH-tunable platform to investigate cell behaviour under normal and non-physiological pH. In this paper we formulated acidic (pH = 4) and basic (pH = 9) hydrogels, from the same octapeptide FEFKFEFK (F8) (F = phenyalanine, E = glutamic acid, K = lysine), to test the effect of non-physiological pH on encapsulated NP cells. Similarly, graphene oxide-containing F8 hydrogels (GO-F8) were formulated as stiffer analogues. Acidic and basic hydrogels showed peculiar morphologies and rheological properties, with all systems able to buffer within 30 minutes of exposure to cell culture media. NP cells seeded in acidic F8 hydrogels showed a more catabolic phenotype compared to basic hydrogels, with increased gene expression of degradative enzymes (MMP-3, ADAMTS-4), neurotrophic factors (NGF and BDNF) and NF-κB p65 phosphorylation. Acidic GO-F8 hydrogels also induced a catabolic response, although milder than basic counterparts and with the highest gene expression of characteristic NP-matrix components, aggrecan and collagen II. In all systems, the cellular response had a peak within 3 days of encapsulation, thereafter decreasing over 7 days, suggesting a 'transitory' effect of hydrogel pH on encapsulated cells. This work gives an insight on the effect of pH (and pH buffering) on encapsulated NP cells and offers new designs of low and high pH peptide hydrogels for 3D cell culture studies. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: We have recently shown the potential of graphene oxide - self-assembling peptide hybrid hydrogels for NP cell culture and regeneration. Alongside cell carrier, self-assembling peptide hydrogels actually provide a versatile pH-tunable platform for biological studies. In this work we decided to explore the effect of non-physiological pH (and pH buffering) on encapsulated NP cells. Our approach allows the formulation of both acidic and basic hydrogels, starting from the same peptide sequence. We showed that the initial pH of the scaffold does not affect significantly cell response to encapsulation, but the presence of GO results in lower inflammatory levels and higher NP matrix protein production. This platform could be exploited to study the effect of pH on different cell types whose behaviour can be pH-dependent.
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15
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Impact of Microenvironmental Changes during Degeneration on Intervertebral Disc Progenitor Cells: A Comparison with Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9040148. [PMID: 35447707 PMCID: PMC9025850 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9040148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration occurs with natural ageing and is linked to low back pain, a common disease. As an avascular tissue, the microenvironment inside the IVD is harsh. During degeneration, the condition becomes even more compromised, presenting a significant challenge to the survival and function of the resident cells, as well as to any regeneration attempts using cell implantation. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been proposed as a candidate stem cell tool for IVD regeneration. Recently, endogenous IVD progenitor cells have been identified inside the IVD, highlighting their potential for self-repair. IVD progenitor cells have properties similar to MSCs, with minor differences in potency and surface marker expression. Currently, it is unclear how IVD progenitor cells react to microenvironmental factors and in what ways they possibly behave differently to MSCs. Here, we first summarized the microenvironmental factors presented in the IVD and their changes during degeneration. Then, we analyzed the available studies on the responses of IVD progenitor cells and MSCs to these factors, and made comparisons between these two types of cells, when possible, in an attempt to achieve a clear understanding of the characteristics of IVD progenitor cells when compared to MSCs; as well as, to provide possible clues to cell fate after implantation, which may facilitate future manipulation and design of IVD regeneration studies.
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16
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Ligorio C, Hoyland JA, Saiani A. Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogels as Functional Tools to Tackle Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Gels 2022; 8:gels8040211. [PMID: 35448112 PMCID: PMC9028266 DOI: 10.3390/gels8040211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP), caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, is a major contributor to global disability. In its healthy state, the IVD is a tough and well-hydrated tissue, able to act as a shock absorber along the spine. During degeneration, the IVD is hit by a cell-driven cascade of events, which progressively lead to extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, chronic inflammation, and pain. Current treatments are divided into palliative care (early stage degeneration) and surgical interventions (late-stage degeneration), which are invasive and poorly efficient in the long term. To overcome these limitations, alternative tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies, in which soft biomaterials are used as injectable carriers of cells and/or biomolecules to be delivered to the injury site and restore tissue function, are currently being explored. Self-assembling peptide hydrogels (SAPHs) represent a promising class of de novo synthetic biomaterials able to merge the strengths of both natural and synthetic hydrogels for biomedical applications. Inherent features, such as shear-thinning behaviour, high biocompatibility, ECM biomimicry, and tuneable physiochemical properties make these hydrogels appropriate and functional tools to tackle IVD degeneration. This review will describe the pathogenesis of IVD degeneration, list biomaterials requirements to attempt IVD repair, and focus on current peptide hydrogel materials exploited for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosimo Ligorio
- Department of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 3BB, UK;
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PG, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PG, UK;
| | - Alberto Saiani
- Department of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 3BB, UK;
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
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17
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Edifying the Focal Factors Influencing Mesenchymal Stem Cells by the Microenvironment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration in Low Back Pain. Pain Res Manag 2022; 2022:6235400. [PMID: 35386857 PMCID: PMC8977320 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6235400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is one of the main triggers of low back pain, which is most often associated with patient morbidity and high medical costs. IVDD triggers a wide range of pathologies and clinical syndromes like paresthesia, weakness of extremities, and intermittent/chronic back pain. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated to possess immunomodulatory functions as well as the capability of differentiating into chondrocytes under appropriate microenvironment conditions, which makes them potentially epitome for intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration. The IVD microenvironment is composed by niche of cells, and their chemical and physical milieus have been exhibited to have robust influence on MSC behavior as well as differentiation. Nevertheless, the contribution of MSCs to the IVD milieu conditions in healthy as well as degeneration situations is still a matter of debate. It is still not clear which factors, if any, are essential for effective and efficient MSC survival, proliferation, and differentiation. IVD microenvironment clues such as nucleopulpocytes, potential of hydrogen (pH), osmotic changes, glucose, hypoxia, apoptosis, pyroptosis, and hydrogels are capable of influencing the MSCs aimed for the treatment of IVDD. Therefore, clinical usage of MSCs ought to take into consideration these microenvironment clues during treatment. Alteration in these factors could function as prognostic indicators during the treatment of patients with IVDD using MSCs. Thus, standardized valves for these microenvironment clues are warranted.
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18
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Herger N, Bermudez-Lekerika P, Farshad M, Albers CE, Distler O, Gantenbein B, Dudli S. Should Degenerated Intervertebral Discs of Patients with Modic Type 1 Changes Be Treated with Mesenchymal Stem Cells? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052721. [PMID: 35269863 PMCID: PMC8910866 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) has been among the leading causes of disability for the past 30 years. This highlights the need for improvement in LBP management. Many clinical trials focus on developing treatments against degenerative disc disease (DDD). The multifactorial etiology of DDD and associated risk factors lead to a heterogeneous patient population. It comes as no surprise that the outcomes of clinical trials on intradiscal mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) injections for patients with DDD are inconsistent. Intradiscal MSC injections have demonstrated substantial pain relief and significant disability-related improvements, yet they have failed to regenerate the intervertebral disc (IVD). Increasing evidence suggests that the positive outcomes in clinical trials might be attributed to the immunomodulatory potential of MSCs rather than to their regenerative properties. Therefore, patient stratification for inflammatory DDD phenotypes may (i) better serve the mechanisms of action of MSCs and (ii) increase the treatment effect. Modic type 1 changes—pathologic inflammatory, fibrotic changes in the vertebral bone marrow—are frequently observed adjacent to degenerated IVDs in chronic LBP patients and represent a clinically distinct subpopulation of patients with DDD. This review discusses whether degenerated IVDs of patients with Modic type 1 changes should be treated with an intradiscal MSC injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Herger
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich and Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (N.H.); (O.D.)
| | - Paola Bermudez-Lekerika
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland; (P.B.-L.); (B.G.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Mazda Farshad
- Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Christoph E. Albers
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Oliver Distler
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich and Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (N.H.); (O.D.)
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland; (P.B.-L.); (B.G.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Stefan Dudli
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich and Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (N.H.); (O.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-4451-07511
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19
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Novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging Tools for the Diagnosis of Degenerative Disc Disease: A Narrative Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12020420. [PMID: 35204509 PMCID: PMC8870820 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, with a significant socioeconomic burden on healthcare systems. It is mainly caused by degenerative disc disease (DDD), a progressive, chronic, and age-related process. With its capacity to accurately characterize intervertebral disc (IVD) and spinal morphology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been established as one of the most valuable tools in diagnosing DDD. However, existing technology cannot detect subtle changes in IVD tissue composition and cell metabolism. In this review, we summarized the state of the art regarding innovative quantitative MRI modalities that have shown the capacity to discriminate and quantify changes in matrix composition and integrity, as well as biomechanical changes in the early stages of DDD. Validation and implementation of this new technology in the clinical setting will allow for an early diagnosis of DDD and ideally guide conservative and regenerative treatments that may prevent the progression of the degenerative process rather than intervene at the latest stages of the disease.
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20
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Wang Z, Shen J, Feng E, Jiao Y. AMPK as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:789087. [PMID: 34957218 PMCID: PMC8692877 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.789087] [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: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
As the principal reason for low back pain, intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) affects the health of people around the world regardless of race or region. Degenerative discs display a series of characteristic pathological changes, including cell apoptosis, senescence, remodeling of extracellular matrix, oxidative stress and inflammatory local microenvironment. As a serine/threonine-protein kinase in eukaryocytes, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is involved in various cellular processes through the modulation of cell metabolism and energy balance. Recent studies have shown the abnormal activity of AMPK in degenerative disc cells. Besides, AMPK regulates multiple crucial biological behaviors in IDD. In this review, we summarize the pathophysiologic changes of IDD and activation process of AMPK. We also attempt to generalize the role of AMPK in the pathogenesis of IDD. Moreover, therapies targeting AMPK in alleviating IDD are analyzed, for better insight into the potential of AMPK as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianxiong Shen
- Department of Orthopedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Erwei Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Jiao
- Department of Orthopedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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21
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Williams RJ, Tryfonidou MA, Snuggs JW, Le Maitre CL. Cell sources proposed for nucleus pulposus regeneration. JOR Spine 2021; 4:e1175. [PMID: 35005441 PMCID: PMC8717099 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lower back pain (LBP) occurs in 80% of adults in their lifetime; resulting in LBP being one of the biggest causes of disability worldwide. Chronic LBP has been linked to the degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD). The current treatments for chronic back pain only provide alleviation of symptoms through pain relief, tissue removal, or spinal fusion; none of which target regenerating the degenerate IVD. As nucleus pulposus (NP) degeneration is thought to represent a key initiation site of IVD degeneration, cell therapy that specifically targets the restoration of the NP has been reviewed here. A literature search to quantitatively assess all cell types used in NP regeneration was undertaken. With key cell sources: NP cells; annulus fibrosus cells; notochordal cells; chondrocytes; bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells; adipose-derived stromal cells; and induced pluripotent stem cells extensively analyzed for their regenerative potential of the NP. This review highlights: accessibility; expansion capability in vitro; cell survival in an IVD environment; regenerative potential; and safety for these key potential cell sources. In conclusion, while several potential cell sources have been proposed, iPSC may provide the most promising regenerative potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Williams
- Biomedical Research Centre, BiosciencesSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
| | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
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22
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Chen Q, Shi F, Yang C, Mao G, Zhou C, Liu L, Yang X, Song Y. Lentivirus-shRNA mediated prolyl hydroxylase 2 knockdown increases HIF-1α and inhibits nucleus pulposus cells degeneration. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 212:185-193. [PMID: 34781297 DOI: 10.1159/000520795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) plays a crucial role in regulating the hypoxia-inducible state of nucleus pulposus cells in the intervertebral disc. In addition, the oxygen-dependent conversion of HIF-1α in nucleus pulposus cells is controlled by the protein Proline 4-hydroxylase domain (PHD) family. To explore whether HIF-1α can be regulated by modulating PHD homologs to inhibit nucleus pulposus degeneration, PHD2-shRNAs were designed and PHD2 interference vector was constructed. The expression of HIF-1α and PHD2 genes in the nucleus pulposus cells in the experimental group was detected by RT-PCR, and the expression of HIF-1α, MMP-2, Aggrecan and Col II proteins in the P0-P3 cells in the experimental group and the control group was detected by Western blotting. The apoptosis of P0-P3 nucleus pulposus cells was detected by flow cytometry. After lentivirus infection, the interference efficiency of the PHD2 gene decreased with cell passage. The apoptosis of P1-P3 cells in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group or degeneration group. Compared to the control group, the expression of HIF-1α, Aggrecan and Col II proteins increased significantly, and the expression of MMP-2 protein decreased significantly. In conclusion, interference with PHD2 can upregulate the expression of HIF-1α, accelerate anabolism, reduce catabolism, inhibit apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells, and then these can inhibit degeneration of nucleus pulposus cells. Our results can provide an effective therapeutic target in intervertebral discs during intervertebral disc degeneration and this may have important clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fangfang Shi
- Department of Hematology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, No. 1 People's Hospital of AkeSu, AkeSu, China
| | - Guangfeng Mao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Third People Hospital of Zhuji, Shaoxing, China
| | - Chunguang Zhou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Limin Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yueming Song
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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23
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Veroutis D, Kouroumalis A, Lagopati N, Polyzou A, Chamilos C, Papadodima S, Evangelou K, Gorgoulis VG, Kletsas D. Evaluation of senescent cells in intervertebral discs by lipofuscin staining. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 199:111564. [PMID: 34474077 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is considered an important contributor of low back pain, a major age-related disease. Interestingly, an unprecedented high number of senescent cells has been reported in aged and degenerated IVDs, most probably affecting tissue homeostasis. In previous studies classical markers of cellular senescence have been used, such as SA-β-gal staining or p16Ink4a expression. Aim of the presented study was a re-evaluation of the number of senescent IVD cells by using a newly established staining procedure for lipofuscin, based on a Sudan Black-B analogue (GL13), which can be used in fresh, as well as in fixed and embedded tissues. In cultures of senescent rat and human IVD cells both SA-β-gal and GL13 gave similar percentages of senescent cells. Similarly, in fresh tissues from old rats the ratios of senescent cells were high with both detection procedures. Finally, in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues from humans, a significant increased number of GL13-positive cells was found in herniated tissues, as compared to apparently normal ones, while similar numbers of p16Ink4a-positive cells were observed. These data confirm the significantly enhanced number of senescent cells in aged and degenerated IVDs, most probably contributing to the degeneration of this tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Veroutis
- Molecular Carcinogenesis Group, Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece; Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasios Kouroumalis
- Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Ageing, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, National Centre for Scientific Research "Demokritos", Aghia Paraskevi, Greece
| | - Nefeli Lagopati
- Molecular Carcinogenesis Group, Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece; Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Polyzou
- Molecular Carcinogenesis Group, Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Stavroula Papadodima
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Evangelou
- Molecular Carcinogenesis Group, Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Vassilis G Gorgoulis
- Molecular Carcinogenesis Group, Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece; Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Manchester Cancer Research Centre, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Center for New Biotechnologies and Precision Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Kletsas
- Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Ageing, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, National Centre for Scientific Research "Demokritos", Aghia Paraskevi, Greece.
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24
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Di Pompo G, Errani C, Gillies R, Mercatali L, Ibrahim T, Tamanti J, Baldini N, Avnet S. Acid-Induced Inflammatory Cytokines in Osteoblasts: A Guided Path to Osteolysis in Bone Metastasis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:678532. [PMID: 34124067 PMCID: PMC8194084 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.678532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone metastasis (BM) is a dismal complication of cancer that frequently occurs in patients with advanced carcinomas and that often manifests as an osteolytic lesion. In bone, tumor cells promote an imbalance in bone remodeling via the release of growth factors that, directly or indirectly, stimulate osteoclast resorption activity. However, carcinoma cells are also characterized by an altered metabolism responsible for a decrease of extracellular pH, which, in turn, directly intensifies osteoclast bone erosion. Here, we speculated that tumor-derived acidosis causes the osteoblast–osteoclast uncoupling in BM by modulating the pro-osteoclastogenic phenotype of osteoblasts. According to our results, a low pH recruits osteoclast precursors and promotes their differentiation through the secretome of acid-stressed osteoblasts that includes pro-osteoclastogenic factors and inflammatory mediators, such as RANKL, M-CSF, TNF, IL-6, and, above the others, IL-8. The treatment with the anti-IL-6R antibody tocilizumab or with an anti-IL-8 antibody reverted this effect. Finally, in a series of BM patients, circulating levels of the osteolytic marker TRACP5b significantly correlated with IL-8. Our findings brought out that tumor-derived acidosis promotes excessive osteolysis at least in part by inducing an inflammatory phenotype in osteoblasts, and these results strengthen the use of anti-IL-6 or anti-IL-8 strategies to treat osteolysis in BM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Di Pompo
- Biomedical Science and Technologies Lab, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Costantino Errani
- Orthopaedic Oncology Surgical Unit, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Robert Gillies
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Laura Mercatali
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo Per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Toni Ibrahim
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo Per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Jacopo Tamanti
- National Tumor Assistance (ANT) Foundation, Bologna, Italy
| | - Nicola Baldini
- Biomedical Science and Technologies Lab, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sofia Avnet
- Biomedical Science and Technologies Lab, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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25
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Wang D, Hartman R, Han C, Zhou CM, Couch B, Malkamaki M, Roginskaya V, Van Houten B, Mullett SJ, Wendell SG, Jurczak MJ, Kang J, Lee J, Sowa G, Vo N. Lactate oxidative phosphorylation by annulus fibrosus cells: evidence for lactate-dependent metabolic symbiosis in intervertebral discs. Arthritis Res Ther 2021; 23:145. [PMID: 34020698 PMCID: PMC8139157 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02501-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc degeneration contributes to low back pain. The avascular intervertebral disc consists of a central hypoxic nucleus pulpous (NP) surrounded by the more oxygenated annulus fibrosus (AF). Lactic acid, an abundant end-product of NP glycolysis, has long been viewed as a harmful waste that acidifies disc tissue and decreases cell viability and function. As lactic acid is readily converted into lactate in disc tissue, the objective of this study was to determine whether lactate could be used by AF cells as a carbon source rather than being removed from disc tissue as a waste byproduct. Methods Import and conversion of lactate to tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates and amino acids in rabbit AF cells were measured by heavy-isotope (13C-lactate) tracing experiments using mass spectrometry. Levels of protein expression of lactate converting enzymes, lactate importer and exporter in NP and AF tissues were quantified by Western blots. Effects of lactate on proteoglycan (35S-sulfate) and collagen (3H-proline) matrix protein synthesis and oxidative phosphorylation (Seahorse XFe96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer) in AF cells were assessed. Results Heavy-isotope tracing experiments revealed that AF cells imported and converted lactate into TCA cycle intermediates and amino acids using in vitro cell culture and in vivo models. Addition of exogenous lactate (4mM) in culture media induced expression of the lactate importer MCT1 and increased oxygen consumption rate by 50%, mitochondrial ATP-linked respiration by 30%, and collagen synthesis by 50% in AF cell cultures grown under physiologic oxygen (2-5% O2) and glucose concentration (1-5mM). AF tissue highly expresses MCT1, LDH-H, an enzyme that preferentially converts lactate to pyruvate, and PDH, an enzyme that converts pyruvate to acetyl-coA. In contrast, NP tissue highly expresses MCT4, a lactate exporter, and LDH-M, an enzyme that preferentially converts pyruvate to lactate. Conclusions These findings support disc lactate-dependent metabolic symbiosis in which lactate produced by the hypoxic, glycolytic NP cells is utilized by the more oxygenated AF cells via oxidative phosphorylation for energy and matrix production, thus shifting the current research paradigm of viewing disc lactate as a waste product to considering it as an important biofuel. These scientifically impactful results suggest novel therapeutic targets in disc metabolism and degeneration. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-021-02501-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Robert Hartman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.,University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Enterprises, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Chao Han
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.,Tianjin Hospital, 406 Jiefang South Road Hexi District, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Chao-Ming Zhou
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Brandon Couch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Matias Malkamaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Vera Roginskaya
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Bennett Van Houten
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Steven J Mullett
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.,Health Sciences Metabolomics and Lipidomics Core, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stacy G Wendell
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.,Health Sciences Metabolomics and Lipidomics Core, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael J Jurczak
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Center for Metabolism and Mitochondrial Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - James Kang
- Department of Orthopedics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Harvard University, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Joon Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Gwendolyn Sowa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA. .,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA.
| | - Nam Vo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ferguson Laboratory for Orthopedic and Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, E1644 Biomedical Science Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
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26
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Jacobsen T, Hernandez P, Chahine N. Inhibition of toll-like receptor 4 protects against inflammation-induced mechanobiological alterations to intervertebral disc cells. Eur Cell Mater 2021; 41:576-591. [PMID: 34013512 PMCID: PMC8329983 DOI: 10.22203/ecm.v041a37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is associated with elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines implicated in disease aetiology and matrix degradation. Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) has been shown to participate in the inflammatory responses of the nucleus pulposus (NP) and its levels are upregulated in disc degeneration. Activation of TLR4 in NP cells leads to significant, persistent changes in cell biophysical properties, including hydraulic permeability and osmotically active water content, as well as alterations to the actin cytoskeleton. The study hypothesis was that inflammation-induced changes to cellular biomechanical properties and actin cytoskeleton of NP cells could be prevented by inhibiting TLR4 signalling. Isolated NP cells from bovine discs were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the best studied TLR4 agonist, with or without treatment with the TLR4 inhibitor TAK-242. Cellular volume regulation responses to step osmotic loading were measured and the transient volume-response was captured by time-lapse microscopy. Volume-responses were analysed using mixture theory framework to investigate hydraulic permeability and osmotically active intracellular water content. Hydraulic permeability and cell radius were significantly increased with LPS treatment and these changes were blocked in cells treated with TAK-242. LPS-induced remodelling of cortical actin and IL-6 upregulation were also mitigated by TAK-242 treatment. These findings indicated that TLR4 signalling participated in NP cell biophysical regulation and may be an important target for mitigating altered cell responses observed in IVD inflammation and degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- T.D. Jacobsen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University,
New York, NY
| | - P.A. Hernandez
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Texas
Southwestern Medical Centre, Dallas, TX
| | - N.O. Chahine
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University,
New York, NY,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Columbia University, New
York, NY,Address for correspondence: Nadeen
Chahine, 650 W 168th St, William Black Building, 14th
Floor Room 14-1408E, New York, NY 10032, USA. Telephone number: +1 2123051515,
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27
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Kim JW, Jeon N, Shin DE, Lee SY, Kim M, Han DH, Shin JY, Lee S. Regeneration in Spinal Disease: Therapeutic Role of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1 Alpha in Regeneration of Degenerative Intervertebral Disc. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105281. [PMID: 34067899 PMCID: PMC8155933 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a complex joint structure comprising three primary components—namely, nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF), and cartilaginous endplate (CEP). The IVD retrieves oxygen from the surrounding vertebral body through CEP by diffusion and likely generates ATP via anaerobic glycolysis. IVD degeneration is characterized by a cascade of cellular, compositional, structural changes. With advanced age, pronounced changes occur in the composition of the disc extracellular matrix (ECM). NP and AF cells in the IVD possess poor regenerative capacity compared with that of other tissues. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a master transcription factor that initiates a coordinated cellular cascade in response to a low oxygen tension environment, including the regulation of numerous enzymes in response to hypoxia. HIF-1α is essential for NP development and homeostasis and is involved in various processes of IVD degeneration process, promotes ECM in NP, maintains the metabolic activities of NP, and regulates dystrophic mineralization of NP, as well as angiogenesis, autophagy, and apoptosis during IVD degeneration. HIF-1α may, therefore, represent a diagnostic tool for early IVD degeneration and a therapeutic target for inhibiting IVD degeneration
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Woo Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul 01830, Korea; (J.-W.K.); (N.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Neunghan Jeon
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul 01830, Korea; (J.-W.K.); (N.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Dong-Eun Shin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Korea; (D.-E.S.); (D.H.H.)
| | - So-Young Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam-si 13488, Korea;
| | - Myongwhan Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul 01830, Korea; (J.-W.K.); (N.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Dong Hun Han
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Korea; (D.-E.S.); (D.H.H.)
| | - Jae Yeon Shin
- Department of Computer Science, College of IT Engineering, SeMyung University, Jechun 27136, Korea;
| | - Soonchul Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Korea; (D.-E.S.); (D.H.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-31-780-5289; Fax: +82-31-708-3578
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28
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Xue J, Chen H, Zhu B, Li X, Ouyang Z, Li S, Xu Z, Xie Y, Yan Y. Percutaneous spinal endoscopy with unilateral interlaminar approach to perform bilateral decompression for central lumbar spinal stenosis: radiographic and clinical assessment. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2021; 22:236. [PMID: 33648479 PMCID: PMC7923329 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-021-04100-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, a percutaneous spinal endoscopy unilateral posterior interlaminar approach to perform bilateral decompression has been proposed for use in treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis, As a development and supplement to traditional surgery, its advantages regarding therapeutic effects and prognosis, such as minor soft tissue damage, little intraoperative blood loss, and a quick return to daily life. However, there are few analyses of this surgery with a follow-up of more than 1 year,we conducted this study in order to quantitatively investigate radiographic and clinical efficacies of this surgery for central lumbar spinal stenosis. Materials and methods Forty-six patients with central lumbar spinal stenosis were enrolled from January 2017 to July 2018. The visual analog scale (VAS) for back pain and leg pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI), modified MacNab criteria were used to evaluate clinical efficiency at preoperative and postoperative time points. The intervertebral height index (IHI), cross-sectional area of the spinal canal (CSAC), calibrated disc signal (CDS) and spinal stability were examined to assess radiographic decompression efficiency via magnetic resonance imaging and X-ray at preoperative and postoperative time points. Results The VAS score for lower back pain and leg pain improved from 7.50 ± 0.78 to 1.70 ± 0.66 and from 7.30 ± 0.79 to 1.74 ± 0.68, respectively, and the ODI improved from 72.35 ± 8.15 to 16.15 ± 4.51. In terms of modified MacNab criteria, 91.3% of the patients achieved good or excellent outcomes. Furthermore, significant changes after surgery were observed for the percentage of CSAC, increasing from 125.3 ± 53.9 to 201.4 ± 78 mm2; however, no significant differences were observed for the remaining measurement indicators. Conclusions The clinical and radiographic efficacies of this surgery for central lumbar spinal stenosis were good in short-term follow-up, and this surgery did not cause meaningful changes in IHI, CDS, and spine stability in short-term follow-up. The effect of long-term follow-up needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingbo Xue
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoxiang Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuelin Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihua Ouyang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shan Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhun Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Xie
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiguo Yan
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, People's Republic of China.
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29
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Snuggs JW, Tessier S, Bunning RAB, Shapiro IM, Risbud MV, Le Maitre CL. TonEBP regulates the hyperosmotic expression of aquaporin 1 and 5 in the intervertebral disc. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3164. [PMID: 33542263 PMCID: PMC7862284 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81838-9] [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: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The central region of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is rich in proteoglycans, leading to a hyperosmotic environment, which fluctuates with daily loading. The cells of the nucleus pulposus (NP cells) have adapted to this environment via the function of tonicity enhancer binding protein (TonEBP), and NP cells have been shown to express several water channels known as aquaporins (AQP). We have previously shown that AQP1 and 5 decrease during IVD degeneration. Here, the regulation of AQP1 and 5 by hyperosmotic conditions and the role of TonEBP in this regulation was investigated. AQP1 and 5 gene expression was upregulated by hyperosmotic conditions mimicking the osmolality of the healthy IVD, which was abrogated by TonEBP knockdown. Furthermore, AQP1 and 5 immunopositivity was significantly reduced in TonEBPΔ/Δ E17.5 mice when compared with wildtype controls, indicating in vivo expression of AQP1 and 5 is controlled at least in part by TonEBP. This hyperosmotic regulation of AQP1 and 5 could help to explain the decreased AQP1 and 5 expression during degeneration, when the osmolality of the NP decreases. Together this data suggests that TonEBP-regulated osmo-adaptation may be disrupted during IVD degeneration when the expression of both AQPs is reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. W. Snuggs
- grid.5884.10000 0001 0303 540XBiomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus, Howard Street, Sheffield, S1 1WB UK
| | - S. Tessier
- grid.265008.90000 0001 2166 5843Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - R. A. B. Bunning
- grid.5884.10000 0001 0303 540XBiomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus, Howard Street, Sheffield, S1 1WB UK
| | - I. M. Shapiro
- grid.265008.90000 0001 2166 5843Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA USA ,grid.265008.90000 0001 2166 5843Graduate Program in Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - M. V. Risbud
- grid.265008.90000 0001 2166 5843Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA USA ,grid.265008.90000 0001 2166 5843Graduate Program in Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - C. L. Le Maitre
- grid.5884.10000 0001 0303 540XBiomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus, Howard Street, Sheffield, S1 1WB UK
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Xiong S, Kumar A, Tian S, Taher EE, Yang E, Kinchington PR, Xia X, Du Y. Stem cell transplantation rescued a primary open-angle glaucoma mouse model. eLife 2021; 10:63677. [PMID: 33506763 PMCID: PMC7864631 DOI: 10.7554/elife.63677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. In this study, we investigated if transplanted stem cells are able to rescue a glaucoma mouse model with transgenic myocilin Y437H mutation and explored the possible mechanisms. Human trabecular meshwork stem cells (TMSCs) were intracamerally transplanted which reduced mouse intraocular pressure, increased outflow facility, protected the retinal ganglion cells and preserved their function. TMSC transplantation also significantly increased the TM cellularity, promoted myocilin secretion from TM cells into the aqueous humor to reduce endoplasmic reticulum stress, repaired the TM tissue with extracellular matrix modulation and ultrastructural restoration. Co-culturing TMSCs with myocilin mutant TM cells in vitro promoted TMSCs differentiating into phagocytic functional TM cells. RNA sequencing revealed that TMSCs had upregulated genes related to TM regeneration and neuroprotection. Our results uncovered therapeutic potential of TMSCs for curing glaucoma and elucidated possible mechanisms by which TMSCs achieve the treatment effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Xiong
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States.,Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, China
| | - Ajay Kumar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Shenghe Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Eman E Taher
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States.,Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Enzhi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Paul R Kinchington
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, China
| | - Yiqin Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States.,Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States.,McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States
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31
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Fearing BV, Speer JE, Jing L, Kalathil A, P. Kelly M, M. Buchowski J, P. Zebala L, Luhmann S, C. Gupta M, A. Setton L. Verteporfin treatment controls morphology, phenotype, and global gene expression for cells of the human nucleus pulposus. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1111. [PMID: 33392449 PMCID: PMC7770208 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells of the nucleus pulposus (NP) are essential contributors to extracellular matrix synthesis and function of the intervertebral disc. With age and degeneration, the NP becomes stiffer and more dehydrated, which is associated with a loss of phenotype and biosynthetic function for its resident NP cells. Also, with aging, the NP cell undergoes substantial morphological changes from a rounded shape with pronounced vacuoles in the neonate and juvenile, to one that is more flattened and spread with a loss of vacuoles. Here, we make use of the clinically relevant pharmacological treatment verteporfin (VP), previously identified as a disruptor of yes-associated protein-TEA domain family member-binding domain (TEAD) signaling, to promote morphological changes in adult human NP cells in order to study variations in gene expression related to differences in cell shape. Treatment of adult, degenerative human NP cells with VP caused a shift in morphology from a spread, fibroblastic-like shape to a rounded, clustered morphology with decreased transcriptional activity of TEAD and serum-response factor. These changes were accompanied by an increased expression of vacuoles, NP-specific gene markers, and biosynthetic activity. The contemporaneous observation of VP-induced changes in cell shape and prominent, time-dependent changes within the transcriptome of NP cells occurred over all timepoints in culture. Enriched gene sets with the transition to VP-induced cell rounding suggest a major role for cell adhesion, cytoskeletal remodeling, vacuolar lumen, and MAPK activity in the NP phenotypic and functional response to changes in cell shape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey V. Fearing
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryAtrium Health Musculoskeletal InstituteCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Julie E. Speer
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Liufang Jing
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Aravind Kalathil
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Michael P. Kelly
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Jacob M. Buchowski
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Lukas P. Zebala
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Scott Luhmann
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Munish C. Gupta
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Lori A. Setton
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
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Wang Y, Wang H, Zhuo Y, Hu Y, Zhang Z, Ye J, Liu L, Luo L, Zhao C, Zhou Q, Li P. SIRT1 alleviates high-magnitude compression-induced senescence in nucleus pulposus cells via PINK1-dependent mitophagy. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:16126-16141. [PMID: 32687063 PMCID: PMC7485741 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical overloading-induced nucleus pulposus (NP) cells senescence plays an important role in the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). The silent mating type information regulator 2 homolog-1 (SIRT1)-mediated pathway preserves the normal NP cell phenotype and mitochondrial homeostasis under multiple stresses. We aimed to investigate the role of SIRT1 in IVDD by assessing the effects of SIRT1 overexpression on high-magnitude compression-induced senescence in NP cells. High-magnitude compression induced cellular senescence and mitochondrial dysfunction in human NP cells. Moreover, SIRT1 overexpression tended to alleviate NP cell senescence and mitochondrial dysfunction under compressive stress. Given the mitophagy-inducing property of SIRT1, activity of mitophagy was evaluated in NP cells to further demonstrate the underlying mechanism. The results showed that SIRT1-overexpression attenuated senescence and mitochondrial injury in NP cells subjected to high-magnitude compression. However, depletion of PINK1, a key mitophagic regulator, impaired mitophagy and blocked the protective role of SIRT1 against compression induced senescence in NP cells. In summary, these results suggest that SIRT1 plays a protective role in alleviating NP cell senescence and mitochondrial dysfunction under high-magnitude compression, the mechanism of which is associated with the regulation of PINK1-dependent mitophagy. Our findings may provide a potential therapeutic approach for IVDD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.,Tissue Repairing and Biotechnology Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Haoming Wang
- Tissue Repairing and Biotechnology Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.,Department of Orthopedics, Three Gorges Central Hospital, Chongqing 404000, China
| | - Yunyun Zhuo
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Yanzhu Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.,Tissue Repairing and Biotechnology Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Zetong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jixing Ye
- Tissue Repairing and Biotechnology Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Liehua Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Lei Luo
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Chen Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Qiang Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.,Tissue Repairing and Biotechnology Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Pei Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.,Tissue Repairing and Biotechnology Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
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Oichi T, Taniguchi Y, Oshima Y, Tanaka S, Saito T. Pathomechanism of intervertebral disc degeneration. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1076. [PMID: 32211588 PMCID: PMC7084053 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the main contributor to low back pain, which is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Although substantial progress has been made in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of IDD, fundamental and long-lasting treatments for IDD are still lacking. With increased understanding of the complex pathomechanism of IDD, alternative strategies for treating IDD can be discovered. A brief overview of the prevalence and epidemiologic risk factors of IDD is provided in this review, followed by the descriptions of anatomic, cellular, and molecular structure of the intervertebral disc as well as the molecular pathophysiology of IDD. Finally, the recent findings of intervertebral disc progenitors are reviewed and the future perspectives are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Oichi
- Sensory & Motor System Medicine, Faculty of MedicineThe University of TokyoBunkyo‐kuTokyoJapan
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMaryland
| | - Yuki Taniguchi
- Sensory & Motor System Medicine, Faculty of MedicineThe University of TokyoBunkyo‐kuTokyoJapan
| | - Yasushi Oshima
- Sensory & Motor System Medicine, Faculty of MedicineThe University of TokyoBunkyo‐kuTokyoJapan
| | - Sakae Tanaka
- Sensory & Motor System Medicine, Faculty of MedicineThe University of TokyoBunkyo‐kuTokyoJapan
| | - Taku Saito
- Sensory & Motor System Medicine, Faculty of MedicineThe University of TokyoBunkyo‐kuTokyoJapan
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Bai X, Guo X, Zhang F, Zheng L, Ding W, Yang S. Resveratrol Combined with 17 β-Estradiol Prevents IL-1 β Induced Apoptosis in Human Nucleus Pulposus Via The PI3K/AKT/Mtor and PI3K/AKT/GSK-3 β Pathway. J INVEST SURG 2020; 34:904-911. [PMID: 32036721 DOI: 10.1080/08941939.2019.1705941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Nucleus pulposus (NP) apoptosis is mainly charged for the pathological process of Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Our previous study revealed that Resveratrol (RSV) combined with 17β-estradiol (E2) was more effective in cutting down IL-1β induced NP cell apoptosis via PI3K/AKT pathway. The present study further evaluated the effect of RSV and E2 in the anti-apoptosis process of IVDD. METHODS Human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells culture system and IL-1β inducing apoptosis model were constructed in this research. RSV and E2 were used to inhibit apoptosis. FACS (Fluorescence-activated cell sorting) and CCK-8 (Cell Counting Kit-8) assays were respectively used to determine apoptotic incidence and cell viability of NP cells. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to determine expression of target genes in mRNA level, and western blot analysis was performed to detect the changes of related protein expression. RESULTS RSV combined with E2 attenuated IL-1β-induced cell apoptosis and recovered cell viability. Blockers for mTOR and GSK-3β abated the effect of RSV and E2. RSV combined with E2 obviously increased activated P-mTOR and P-GSK-3β, which contributes to the downregulation of caspase-3. Activated P-NF-kappa B was not involved in the anti-apoptosis process of RSV and E2. CONCLUSION Combination of Resveratrol and 17β-estradiol efficiently resisted IL-1β induced apoptosis of NP cell, mainly through PI3K/AKT/mTOR/caspase-3 and PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoliang Bai
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiaohui Guo
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Long Zheng
- Laboratory Animal Center, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wenyuan Ding
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Sidong Yang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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Injectable Hydrogel Combined with Nucleus Pulposus-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Treatment of Degenerative Intervertebral Disc in Rats. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:8496025. [PMID: 31737077 PMCID: PMC6815539 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8496025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-based tissue engineering in treating intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is promising. An appropriate cell scaffold can maintain the viability and function of transplanted cells. Injectable hydrogel has the potential to be an appropriate cell scaffold as it can mimic the condition of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) of nucleus pulposus (NP) and provide binding sites for cells. This study was aimed at investigating the effect of injectable hydrogel-loaded NP-derived mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSC) for the treatment of IVD degeneration (IDD) in rats. In this study, we selected injectable 3D-RGD peptide-modified polysaccharide hydrogel as a cell transplantation scaffold. In vitro, the biocompatibility, microstructure, and induced differentiation effect on NPMSC of the hydrogel were studied. In vivo, the regenerative effect of hydrogel-loaded NPMSC on degenerated NP in a rat model was evaluated. The results showed that NPMSC was biocompatible and able to induce differentiation in hydrogel in vivo. The disc height index (almost 87%) and MRI index (3313.83 ± 227.79) of the hydrogel-loaded NPMSC group were significantly higher than those of other groups at 8 weeks after injection. Histological staining and immunofluorescence showed that the hydrogel-loaded NPMSC also partly restored the structure and ECM content of degenerated NP after 8 weeks. Moreover, the hydrogel could support long-term NPMSC survival and decrease cell apoptosis rate of the rat IVD. In conclusion, injectable hydrogel-loaded NPMSC transplantation can delay the level of IDD and promote the regeneration of the degenerative IVD in the rat model.
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Hyper-osmolarity environment-induced oxidative stress injury promotes nucleus pulposus cell senescence in vitro. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20191711. [PMID: 31471533 PMCID: PMC6753320 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20191711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleus pulposus (NP) cell senescence is involved in disc degeneration. The in situ osmolarity within the NP region is an important regulator of disc cell’s biology. However, its effects on NP cell senescence remain unclear. The present study was aimed to investigate the effects and mechanism of hyper-osmolarity on NP cell senescence. Rat NP cells were cultured in the in situ-osmolarity medium and hyper-osmolarity medium. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was added along with the medium to investigate the role of oxidative injury. Cell cycle, cell proliferation, senescence associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity, telomerase activity, expression of senescence markers (p16 and p53) and matrix molecules (aggrecan and collagen II) were tested to assess NP cell senescence. Compared with the in situ-osmolarity culture, hyper-osmolarity culture significantly decreased cell proliferation and telomerase activity, increased SA-β-Gal activity and cell fraction in the G0/G1 phase, up-regulated expression of senescence markers (p16 and p53) and down-regulated expression of matrix molecules (aggrecan and collagen II), and increased intracellular ROS accumulation. However, addition of NAC partly reversed these effects of hyper-osmolarity culture on cellular senescence and decreased ROS content in NP cells. In conclusion, a hyper-osmolarity culture promotes NP cell senescence through inducing oxidative stress injury. The present study provides new knowledge on NP cell senescence and helps us to better understand the mechanism of disc degeneration.
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Interaction between Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Intervertebral Disc Microenvironment: From Cell Therapy to Tissue Engineering. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:2376172. [PMID: 32587618 PMCID: PMC7294366 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2376172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) in one of the most disabling symptoms affecting nearly 80% of the population worldwide. Its primary cause seems to be intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD): a chronic and progressive process characterized by loss of viable cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) breakdown within the intervertebral disc (IVD) especially in its inner region, the nucleus pulposus (NP). Over the last decades, innovative biological treatments have been investigated in order to restore the original healthy IVD environment and achieve disc regeneration. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely exploited in regenerative medicine for their capacity to be easily harvested and be able to differentiate along the osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic lineages and to secrete a wide range of trophic factors that promote tissue homeostasis along with immunomodulation and anti-inflammation. Several in vitro and preclinical studies have demonstrated that MSCs are able to acquire a NP cell-like phenotype and to synthesize structural components of the ECM as well as trophic and anti-inflammatory mediators that may support resident cell activity. However, due to its unique anatomical location and function, the IVD presents distinctive features: avascularity, hypoxia, low glucose concentration, low pH, hyperosmolarity, and mechanical loading. Such conditions establish a hostile microenvironment for both resident and exogenously administered cells, which limited the efficacy of intradiscal cell therapy in diverse investigations. This review is aimed at describing the characteristics of the healthy and degenerated IVD microenvironment and how such features influence both resident cells and MSC viability and biological activity. Furthermore, we focused on how recent research has tried to overcome the obstacles coming from the IVD microenvironment by developing innovative cell therapies and functionalized bioscaffolds.
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Lin W, Shi C, Wang W, Wu H, Yang C, Wang A, Shen X, Tian Y, Cao P, Yuan W. Osmolarity and calcium regulate connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) expression in nucleus pulposus cells. Gene 2019; 704:15-24. [PMID: 30965128 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of our study was to verify the hypothesis that the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2), a key molecule essential for the maintenance of nucleus pulposus (NP) matrix homeostasis, is regulated by osmolarity and intracellular calcium in NP cells. METHODS Gene and protein expression levels of CCN2 were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. Transfections and dual luciferase assays were performed to measure the effect of hyperosmolarity, tonicity enhancer binding protein (TonEBP) and Ca2+-calcineurin (Cn)-NFAT signaling on CCN2 promoter activity. RESULTS Cultured in hyperosmotic media, there was a significant decrease in the levels of CCN2 promoter activity, gene and protein expression in NP cells. The JASPAR database was used to analyze the construction of human CCN2 promoter, we found conserved TonE and NFAT binding sites. We then investigated whether TonEBP controlled CCN2 expression. Forced expression of TonEBP in NP cells showed that TonEBP negatively regulated CCN2 promoter activity, while suppression of TonEBP induced CCN2 promoter activity and expression. We then examined if Ca2+-Cn-NFAT signaling participated in the regulation of CCN2 expression. Co-expression of CCN2 reporter with individual NFAT1-4 expression plasmids and/or calcineurin A/B constructs suggested this signaling pathway played a role in the regulation of CCN2expression in NP cells. CONCLUSIONS Results of these studies illustrated that the expression of CCN2 in NP cells was regulated by the NFAT family through a signaling pathway network involving both activator (Ca2+-Cn-NFAT signaling) and suppressor (Hyperosmolarity-TonEBP) molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Changgui Shi
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Weiheng Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Huiqiao Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - An Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Armed Police Force Hospital, Shanghai 201103, China
| | - Xiaolong Shen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Peng Cao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Wen Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
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Ao X, Wang L, Shao Y, Chen X, Zhang J, Chu J, Jiang T, Zhang Z, Huang M. Development and Characterization of a Novel Bipedal Standing Mouse Model of Intervertebral Disc and Facet Joint Degeneration. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2019; 477:1492-1504. [PMID: 31094848 PMCID: PMC6554109 DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000000712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intervertebral disc degeneration is a major cause of chronic low back pain, and excessive loading contributes to intervertebral disc degeneration. However, the lack of an effective bipedal in vivo animal model limits research about this condition. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES To evaluate the utility of a new type of bipedal standing mouse model for intervertebral disc degeneration, we asked: (1) Are there spinal degeneration changes in bipedal mice as determined by lumbar disc height, histologic features, and immunohistochemistry measures compared with control mice? (2) Are the bipedal mice comparable to aged mice for simulating the spinal degeneration caused by increased stress? METHODS Thirty-two 8-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were divided into experimental and control groups. Based on their hydrophobia, mice in the experimental group were placed in a limited water-containing space (5 mm deep) and were thereby induced to actively take a bipedal standing posture. This was conducted twice a day for a total of 6 hours a day, 7 days a week. Control mice were similarly placed in a limited but water-free space. Video surveillance was used to calculate the percentage of time spent in the bipedal stance for the two groups of mice. Compared with the control group, the percentage of time standing on both feet in the experimental group was higher (48% ± 5%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 42%-54% versus 95% ± 1%, 95% CI, 92%-97%; p < 0.001). Eight mice from both groups were then randomly euthanized at either 6 or 10 weeks and lumbar spine specimens (L3-L6) were collected. The lumbar disc height index (DHI%) of the two groups was compared using micro-CT measurements, and the extent of disc degeneration was assessed based on histologic staining (cartilage endplate height, disc degeneration score) and by immunohistochemistry (Col2a1,CollagenX, matrix metalloprotease-13 [MMP-13], osteocalcin [OCN]). In addition, the histopathologic features of spinal degeneration were compared with 12- and 18-month-old mice. A p value < 0.05 indicated a significant difference. RESULTS Lumbar disc degeneration was aggravated after 10 weeks with the DHI% decreasing (5.0% ± 0.4%; 95% CI, 4.6%-5.5% versus 4.6 ± 0.3%; 95% CI, 4.3%-4.9%; p = 0.011). Histologically, the cartilage endplate height of the experimental group was decreased compared with the control group (30 ± 6 μm; 95% CI, 24-37 μm versus 70 ± 7 μm; 95% CI, 63-79 μm; p < 0.001), and the disc degeneration score was increased (5 ± 1; 95% CI, 4-6 versus 1 ± 1; 95% CI, 0-2; p < 0.001). Expression of Col2a1, vimentin, and aggrecan in the experimental group was decreased compared with the control group, whereas the expressions of collagen X (60% ± 2%; 95% CI, 55%-66% versus 19% ± 3%; 95% CI, 17%-24%; p < 0.001), MMP-13 (54% ± 8%; 95% CI, 49%-61% versus 1% ± 1%; 95% CI, 1%-2%; p < 0.001), and OCN (41% ± 3%; 95% CI, 34%-49% versus 5% ± 1%; 95% CI, 2%-7%, p < 0.001) were increased. The spine degeneration caused by this model was primarily manifested in the degeneration of the annulus fibrosus and facet joints compared with aged mice, whereas the degree of degeneration in the nucleus pulposus tissue and cartilage endplates was mild. CONCLUSIONS We believe we have established a noninvasive and effective in vivo bipedal mouse model for studying disc degeneration and biologic signal transduction comparable to that seen in intervertebral disc degeneration. CLINICAL RELEVANCE This in vivo mouse model of intervertebral disc degeneration can simulate the pathogenesis of spinal degeneration caused by increased stress and this can be used to study questions such as disc herniation in young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Ao
- X. Ao, L. Wang, Y. Shao, J. Zhang, J. Chu, T. Jiang, Z. Zhang, M. Huang, Department of Orthopaedics, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China X. Ao, L. Wang, Y. Shao, J. Zhang, J. Chu, T. Jiang, Z. Zhang, M. Huang, Academy of Orthopaedics, Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China X. Chen, Department of Orthopaedics, the First People's Hospital, Jingdezhen, Jiangxi, PR China
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Resveratrol inhibits IL-1β-mediated nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis through regulating the PI3K/Akt pathway. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20190043. [PMID: 30867252 PMCID: PMC6434388 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20190043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleus pulposus (NP) cell apoptosis is a classical cellular character during intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Previous studies have shown that inflammatory cytokine-induced NP cell apoptosis plays an important role in disc degeneration. The present study was aimed to investigate whether resveratrol can suppress IL-1β-mediated NP cell apoptosis and the potential signal transduction pathway. Experimental rat NP cells were treated with culture medium containing IL-1β (20 ng/ml) for 7 days. Control NP cells were cultured in the baseline medium. Resveratrol was added along with culture medium to investigate its effects. The inhibitor LY294002 was used to study the role of the PI3K/Akt pathway. NP cell apoptosis was reflected by the caspase-3 activity, cell apoptosis ratio, and expression of apoptosis-related molecules (Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved PARP). Compared with the control NP cells, IL-1β significantly increased caspase-3 activity, NP cell apoptosis ratio and mRNA/protein expression of Bax, caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP, but decreased mRNA expression of Bcl-2. However, resveratrol partly suppressed the effects of IL-1β on those cell apoptosis-related parameters. Further analysis showed that IL-1β significantly decreased activity of the PI3K/Akt pathway whereas resveratrol partly increased activity of the PI3K/Akt pathway in NP cells treated with IL-1β. Additionally, when the inhibitor LY294002 was added along with the resveratrol, its protective effects against IL-1β-induced NP cell apoptosis were attenuated. In conclusion, resveratrol suppresses IL-1β-mediated NP cell apoptosis through activating the PI3K/Akt pathway. Resveratrol may be an effective drug to attenuate inflammatory cytokine-induced disc degenerative changes.
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Loibl M, Wuertz‐Kozak K, Vadala G, Lang S, Fairbank J, Urban JP. Controversies in regenerative medicine: Should intervertebral disc degeneration be treated with mesenchymal stem cells? JOR Spine 2019; 2:e1043. [PMID: 31463457 PMCID: PMC6711491 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) can significantly reduce the quality of life of patients, and has a considerable economic and social impact worldwide. It is commonly associated with disc degeneration, even though many people with degenerate discs are asymptomatic. Degenerate disc disease (DDD), is thus a common term for intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration associated with LBP. Degeneration is thought to lead to LBP because of nerve ingrowth into the degenerate disc, inflammation, or because degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) alters spinal biomechanics inappropriately. Thus, while the objectives of some interventions for LBP are to control pain intensity, other interventions aim to deal with the consequences of disc degeneration through stabilizing the disc surgically, by inserting artificial discs or by repairing the disc biologically and preventing progressive IVD degeneration. Despite tremendous research efforts, treatment of LBP through the use of regenerative interventions aiming to repair the IVD is still controversial. The use of mesenchymal stem cells for IVD regeneration in a patient-based case will be discussed by an ensemble of clinicians and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Loibl
- Department of Spine SurgerySchulthess KlinikZürichSwitzerland
- Department of Trauma SurgeryRegensburg University Medical CenterRegensburgGermany
| | - Karin Wuertz‐Kozak
- Institute for Biomechanics, Department of Health Sciences and TechnologyETH Zürich, ZürichSwitzerland
- Spine Center, Schön Klinik MünchenMunichGermany
- Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research InstituteParacelsus Private Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
- Department of Health ScienceUniversity of PotsdamPotsdamGermany
| | - Gianluca Vadala
- Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma SurgeryCampus Bio‐Medico University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Siegmund Lang
- Department of Trauma SurgeryRegensburg University Medical CenterRegensburgGermany
| | - Jeremy Fairbank
- Nuffield Department of OrthopaedicsRheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Jill P. Urban
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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Snuggs JW, Day RE, Bach FC, Conner MT, Bunning RAD, Tryfonidou MA, Le Maitre CL. Aquaporin expression in the human and canine intervertebral disc during maturation and degeneration. JOR Spine 2019; 2:e1049. [PMID: 31463463 PMCID: PMC6686802 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a highly hydrated tissue, the rich proteoglycan matrix imbibes water, enabling the disc to withstand compressive loads. During aging and degeneration increased matrix degradation leads to dehydration and loss of function. Aquaporins (AQP) are a family of transmembrane channel proteins that selectively allow the passage of water in and out of cells and are responsible for maintaining water homeostasis in many tissues. Here, the expression of all 13 AQPs at gene and protein level was investigated in human and canine nondegenerate and degenerate IVDs to develop an understanding of the role of AQPs during degeneration. Furthermore, in order to explore the transition of notochordal cells (NCs) towards nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, AQP expression was investigated in canine IVDs enriched in NCs to understand the role of AQPs in IVD maturation. AQP0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9 were expressed at gene and protein level in both nondegenerate and degenerate human NP tissue. AQP2 and 7 immunopositivity increased with degeneration in human NP tissue, whereas AQP4 expression decreased with degeneration in a similar way to AQP1 and 5 shown previously. All AQP proteins that were identified in human NP tissue were also expressed in canine NP tissue. AQP2, 5, 6, and 9 were found to localize to vacuole-like membranes and cell membranes in NC cells. In conclusion, AQPs were abundantly expressed in human and canine IVDs. The expression of many AQP isotypes potentially alludes to multifaceted functions related to adaption of NP cells to the conditions they encounter within their microenvironment in health and degeneration. The presence of AQPs within the IVD may suggest an adaptive role for these water channels during the development and maintenance of the healthy, mature IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph W. Snuggs
- Biomolecular Sciences Research CentreSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
| | - Rebecca E. Day
- Biomolecular Sciences Research CentreSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
| | - Frances C. Bach
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Matthew T. Conner
- Faculty of Science and EngineeringUniversity of WolverhamptonWolverhamptonUK
| | | | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
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Osteogenic protein-1 attenuates nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis through activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in a hyperosmotic culture. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20181708. [PMID: 30459239 PMCID: PMC6294645 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20181708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Previous studies have indicated that osteogenic protein-1 has protective effects on the biological functions of intervertebral disc cells. Hyperosmolarity is an important physicochemical factor within the disc nucleus pulposus (NP) region, which obviously promotes NP cell apoptosis. Objective: To study the effects of osteogenic protein-1 (OP-1) on NP cell apoptosis induced by hyperosmolarity and the potential signaling transduction pathway. Methods: Rat NP cells were cultured in a hyperosmotic medium with or without OP-1 addition for 7 days. Inhibitor 294002 and inhibitor FK-506 were used to investigate the role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in this process. NP cell apoptosis were evaluated by cell apoptosis ratio, activity of caspase-3/9 and gene/protein expression of apoptosis-related molecules (Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3/cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP). Results: OP-1 addition obviously decreased cell apoptosis ratio and caspase-3/9 activity, down-regulated gene/protein expression of pro-apoptosis molecules (Bax, caspase-3/cleaved casepase-3 and cleaved PARP), up-regulated gene/protein expression of anti-apoptosis molecule (Bcl-2) in a hyperosmotic culture. Moreover, OP-1 addition significantly increased protein expression of p-Akt and p-mTOR. Further analysis showed that addition of LY294002 and FK-506 partly attenuated these protective effects of OP-1 against NP cell apoptosis and activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in a hyperosmotic culture. Conclusion: OP-1 can attenuate NP cell apoptosis through activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in a hyperosmotic culture. The present study sheds a new light on the protective role of OP-1 in regulating disc cell biology and provides some theoretical basis for the application of OP-1 in retarding/regenerating disc degeneration.
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Acidic pH promotes nucleus pulposus cell senescence through activating the p38 MAPK pathway. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20181451. [PMID: 30291218 PMCID: PMC6239263 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20181451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Nucleus pulposus (NP) cell senescence is an important cellular feature within the degenerative disc. It is known that a very acidic niche exists in the degenerative disc, which participates in regulating disc cell viability and matrix metabolism. Objective: The present study was aimed to investigate the role and potential signaling transduction pathway of an acidic pH in regulating NP cell senescence. Methods: Rat NP cells were cultured in an acidic pH of 7.2 close to that in a healthy disc (Control group) or in an acidic pH of 6.2 close to that in a severe degenerative disc (Experiment group) for 10 days. Additionally, the experimental NP cells were incubated along with the inhibitor SB203580 to analyze the role of p38 MAPK pathway in this process. Results: Compared with the control NP cells, experimental NP cells showed a suppressed cell proliferation potency, an increased G0/G1 phase fraction whereas a decreased S-phase fraction and a declined telomerase activity, an up-regulated expression of senescence-related molecules (p16 and p53), and a down-regulated expression of matrix-related moleucles (aggrecan and collagen II). Further analysis showed that inhibition of the p38 MAPK pathway partly reversed effects of acidic pH of 6.2 on the experimental NP cells. Conclusion: The very acidic niche identified in a severe degenerative disc promotes NP cell senescence through regulating the p38 MAPK pathway. The present study provides a new mechanism that drives NP cell senescence during disc degeneration.
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Migliorini F, Rath B, Tingart M, Baroncini A, Quack V, Eschweiler J. Autogenic mesenchymal stem cells for intervertebral disc regeneration. INTERNATIONAL ORTHOPAEDICS 2018; 43:1027-1036. [PMID: 30415465 DOI: 10.1007/s00264-018-4218-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A systematic review of the literature was conducted to clarify the outcomes of autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) injections for the regeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD). METHODS The following databases were accessed: PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase and Google Scholar bibliographic databases. Articles including previous or planned surgical interventions were excluded. Only articles reporting percutaneous autologous MSC injection to regenerate IVD in humans were included. We referred to the Coleman Methodology Score for the methodological quality assessment. The statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager Software 5.3. RESULTS After the databases search and cross-references of the bibliographies, seven studies were included in the present work. The funnel plot detected low risk of publication bias. The Coleman Methodology Score reported a good result, scoring 61.07 points. A total of 98 patients were enrolled, with 122 treated levels. All the patients underwent conservative therapies prior to injection. A remarkable improvement in the quality of life were reported after the treatment. The average Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) improved from "severe disability" to "minimal disability" at one year follow-up. The visual analogue scale (VAS) showed an improvement of ca. 30% at one year follow-up. Only one case of herniated nucleus pulposus was reported. No other adverse events at the aspiration or injection site were observed. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review of the literature proved MSC injection to be a safe and feasible option for intervertebral disc regeneration in the early-degeneration stage patients. Irrespective of the source of the MSCs, an overall clinical and radiological improvement of the patients has been evidenced, as indeed a very low complication rate during the follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Migliorini
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Björn Rath
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Alice Baroncini
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Kammerbruchstraße 8, 52152, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Valentin Quack
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jörg Eschweiler
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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The Differential Effects of Leukocyte-Containing and Pure Platelet-Rich Plasma on Nucleus Pulposus-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Implications for the Clinical Treatment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Stem Cells Int 2018; 2018:7162084. [PMID: 30425747 PMCID: PMC6218728 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7162084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a promising strategy for intervertebral disc degeneration. However, the potential harmful effects of leukocytes in PRP on nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs) have seldom been studied. This study aimed at comparatively evaluating effects of pure platelet-rich plasma (P-PRP) and leukocyte-containing platelet-rich plasma (L-PRP) on rabbit NPMSCs in vitro. Methods NPMSCs isolated from rabbit NP tissues were treated with L-PRP or P-PRP in vitro, and then cell proliferation and expression of stem cell markers, proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β), production of ECM (extracellular matrix-related protein), and NF-κB p65 protein were validated by CCK-8 assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence, and western blot respectively. Results NPMSCs differentiate into nucleus pulposus-like cells after treatment of PRPs (P-PRP and L-PRP), and NPMSCs exhibited maximum proliferation at a 10% PRP dose. L-PRP had observably higher concentration of leukocytes, TNF-α, and IL-1β than P-PRP. Furthermore, compared to P-PRP, L-PRP induced the differentiated NPMSCs to upregulate the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β, enhanced activation of the NF-κB pathway, increased the expression of MMP-1 and MMP-13, and produced less ECM in differentiated NPMSCs. Conclusions Both P-PRP and L-PRP can induce the proliferation and NP-differentiation of NPMSCs. Compared to L-PRP, P-PRP can avoid the activation of the NF-κB pathway, thus reducing the inflammatory and catabolic responses.
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Nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis is attenuated by CDMP-2 through regulating oxidative damage under the hyperosmotic environment. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20181176. [PMID: 30177520 PMCID: PMC6177556 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20181176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Disc nucleus pulposus (NP) cell experiences periodic osmolarity alterations during daily activities, which has been proved to affect cell biology in vitro. The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of cartilage-derived morphogenetic protein-2 (CDMP-2) on NP cell apoptosis under the hyperosmolarity culture and the potential mechanism. Isolated rat NP cells were cultured in the in situ-osmolarity medium or hyperosmolarity medium for 3 days. CDMP-2 was added into the hyperosmolarity medium to investigate its effects on NP cell apoptosis. Cell apoptosis rate, caspase-3 activity, gene expression of Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3, and protein expression of Bcl-2, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3 were analyzed to evaluate NP cell apoptosis. Additionally, the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the total superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were analyzed to investigate the potential role of oxidative damage in this process. In the hyperosmolarity culture, NP cells showed a significantly increased cell apoptosis rate and caspase-3 activity, an up-regulated expression of Bax and caspase-3/cleaved-caspase-3 and a down-regulated expression of Bcl-2. However, CDMP-2 partly inhibited these effects of hyperosmolarity culture on NP cells. Additionally, the hyperosmolarity culture significantly increased ROS content and decreased the total SOD activity compared with the in situ-osmolarity culture, whereas exogenous CDMP-2 partly decreased the ROS content and increased the total SOD activity in the hyperosmolarity culture. In conclusion, CDMP-2 is effective in attenuating hyperosmolarity environment-induced NP cell apoptosis, and this process may be mediated through inhibiting oxidative stress damage. The present study indicates that CDMP-2 may be helpful to retard hyperosmolarity niche-mediated disc degeneration.
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Martins DE, Medeiros VPD, Wajchenberg M, Paredes-Gamero EJ, Lima M, Reginato RD, Nader HB, Puertas EB, Faloppa F. Changes in human intervertebral disc biochemical composition and bony end plates between middle and old age. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203932. [PMID: 30226874 PMCID: PMC6144914 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study evaluates molecular, nutritional and biochemical alterations in
human intervertebral discs between middle and old age. Methods Twenty-eight human lumbar intervertebral discs from donors were evaluated and
separated into two groups: Middle-aged (35–50 years old, relatively
non-degenerate discs of Pfirrmann grades 1–3, n = 15) and Old-aged (≥80
years old, all degenerate Pfirrmann grade 4 or 5, n = 13). Parameters which
might be expected to to be related to nutrient supply and so the health of
disc cells (eg the porosity of the vertebral endplate, cell viability and
cell density) and to disc extracellular composition (ie quantification of
glycosaminoglycan disaccharides and hyaluronic acid molecular weight) and
collagen organization, were analyzed. Three regions of the intervertebral
disc (anterior annulus fibrosus, nucleus pulposus, and posterior annulus
fibrosus) were examined. Results The old-aged group showed a decrease in content of sulphated and
non-sulphated glycosaminoglycans relative to middle-aged and there were also
alterations in the proportion of GAG disaccharides and a decrease of
collagen fiber size. Hyaluronic acid molecular weight was around 200 kDa in
all regions and ages studied. The anterior annulus differed from the
posterior annulus particularly in relation to cell density and GAG content.
Additionally, there were changes in the bony endplate, with fewer openings
observed in the caudal than cranial endplates of all discs in both
groups. Conclusions Results show the cranial vertebral endplate is the main vascular source for
the intervertebral discs. Hylauronic acid molecular weight is the same
through the intervertebral disc after age of 50 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delio Eulalio Martins
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Valquiria Pereira de Medeiros
- Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Wajchenberg
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Edgar Julian Paredes-Gamero
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Lima
- Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Rejane Daniele Reginato
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Helena Bonciani Nader
- Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Barros Puertas
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Flavio Faloppa
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Offeddu GS, Tanase CE, Toumpaniari S, Oyen ML, Cameron RE. Stiffening by Osmotic Swelling Constraint in Cartilage-Like Cell Culture Scaffolds. Macromol Biosci 2018; 18:e1800247. [PMID: 30187996 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.201800247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cartilage wounds result in chronic pain and degradation of the quality of life for millions of people. A synthetic cellular scaffold able to heal the damage by substituting the natural tissue is of great potential value. Here, it is shown for the first time that the unique interplay between the molecular components of cartilage can be reproduced in composite materials made of a polyelectrolyte hydrogel embedding a collagen scaffold. These composites possess a mechanical response determined by osmotic and electrostatic effects, comparable to articular cartilage in terms of elastic modulus, time-dependent response, and permeability to interstitial fluid flow. Made entirely from biocompatible materials, the cartilage-like composite materials developed permit 3D culture of chondrocyte-like cells through their microporosity. The biomimetic materials presented here constitute an entirely new class of osmotically stiffened composites, which may find use outside of biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni S Offeddu
- Cambridge Centre for Medical Materials, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, 27 Charles Babbage Rd, Cambridge, CB3 0FS, UK.,The Nanoscience Centre, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Ave, Cambridge, CB3 0FF, UK
| | - Constantin E Tanase
- Cambridge Centre for Medical Materials, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, 27 Charles Babbage Rd, Cambridge, CB3 0FS, UK
| | - Sotiria Toumpaniari
- Cambridge Centre for Medical Materials, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, 27 Charles Babbage Rd, Cambridge, CB3 0FS, UK
| | - Michelle L Oyen
- The Nanoscience Centre, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Ave, Cambridge, CB3 0FF, UK
| | - Ruth E Cameron
- Cambridge Centre for Medical Materials, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, 27 Charles Babbage Rd, Cambridge, CB3 0FS, UK
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Humphreys MD, Ward L, Richardson SM, Hoyland JA. An optimized culture system for notochordal cell expansion with retention of phenotype. JOR Spine 2018; 1:e1028. [PMID: 31463448 PMCID: PMC6686815 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Notochordal (NC) cells display therapeutic potential in treating degeneration of the intervertebral disc. However, research on their phenotype and function is limited by low-cell yields and a lack of appropriate methodology for cell expansion. Utilizing porcine cells, this study aimed to develop an optimized culture system which allows expansion of NC cell populations with retention of phenotype. METHODS Post-natal porcine and foetal human nucleus pulposus tissue was compared histologically and expression of known NC cell marker genes by porcine NC cells was analyzed. Porcine NC cells were isolated from six-week post-natal discs and cultured in vitro under varied conditions: (1) DMEM vs αMEM; (2) laminin-521, fibronectin, gelatin and uncoated tissue culture-treated polystyrene (TCP); (3) 2% O2 vs normoxia; (4) αMEM (300 mOsm/L) vs αMEM (400 mOsm/L); (5) surface stiffness of 0.5 and 4 kPa and standard TCP. Adherence, proliferation, morphology and expression of NC cell markers were assessed over a 14-day culture period. RESULTS Native porcine nucleus pulposus tissue demonstrated similar morphology to human foetal tissue and porcine NC cells expressed known notochordal markers (CD24, KRT8, KRT18, KRT19, and T). Use of αMEM media and laminin-521-coated surfaces showed the greatest cell adherence, proliferation and retention of NC cell morphology and phenotype. Proliferation of NC cell populations was further enhanced in hypoxia (2%) and phenotypic retention was improved on 0.5 kPa culture surfaces. DISCUSSION Our model has demonstrated an optimized system in which NC cell populations may be expanded while retaining a notochordal phenotype. Application of this optimized culture system will enable NC cell expansion for detailed phenotypic and functional study, a major advantage over current culture methods described in the literature. Furthermore, the similarities identified between porcine and human NC cells suggest this system will be applicable in human NC cell culture for investigation of their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Humphreys
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Lizzy Ward
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Stephen M. Richardson
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
- NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Central Manchester Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science CentreManchesterUK
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