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Heggli I, Teixeira GQ, Iatridis JC, Neidlinger‐Wilke C, Dudli S. The role of the complement system in disc degeneration and Modic changes. JOR Spine 2024; 7:e1312. [PMID: 38312949 PMCID: PMC10835744 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Disc degeneration and vertebral endplate bone marrow lesions called Modic changes are prevalent spinal pathologies found in chronic low back pain patients. Their pathomechanisms are complex and not fully understood. Recent studies have revealed that complement system proteins and interactors are dysregulated in disc degeneration and Modic changes. The complement system is part of the innate immune system and plays a critical role in tissue homeostasis. However, its dysregulation has also been associated with various pathological conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Here, we review the evidence for the involvement of the complement system in intervertebral disc degeneration and Modic changes. We found that only a handful of studies reported on complement factors in Modic changes and disc degeneration. Therefore, the level of evidence for the involvement of the complement system is currently low. Nevertheless, the complement system is tightly intertwined with processes known to occur during disc degeneration and Modic changes, such as increased cell death, autoantibody production, bacterial defense processes, neutrophil activation, and osteoclast formation, indicating a contribution of the complement system to these spinal pathologies. Based on these mechanisms, we propose a model how the complement system could contribute to the vicious cycle of tissue damage and chronic inflammation in disc degeneration and Modic changes. With this review, we aim to highlight a currently understudied but potentially important inflammatory pathomechanism of disc degeneration and Modic changes that may be a novel therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Heggli
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of RheumatologyUniversity Hospital Zurich, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Department of Physical Medicine and RheumatologyBalgrist University Hospital, Balgrist Campus, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Leni and Peter W. May Department of OrthopaedicsIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Graciosa Q. Teixeira
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm UniversityUlmGermany
| | - James C. Iatridis
- Leni and Peter W. May Department of OrthopaedicsIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Stefan Dudli
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of RheumatologyUniversity Hospital Zurich, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Department of Physical Medicine and RheumatologyBalgrist University Hospital, Balgrist Campus, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
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2
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Kuhn A, Riegger J, Teixeira GQ, Huber-Lang M, Lambris JD, Neidlinger-Wilke C, Brenner RE. Terminal Complement Activation Is Induced by Factors Released from Endplate Tissue of Disc Degeneration Patients and Stimulates Expression of Catabolic Enzymes in Annulus Fibrosus Cells. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060887. [PMID: 36980228 PMCID: PMC10047197 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Terminal complement complex (TCC) deposition was identified in human degenerated discs. To clarify the role of terminal complement activation in disc degeneration (DD), we investigated respective activating mechanisms and cellular effects in annulus fibrosus (AF) cells. Isolated cells from human AF, nucleus pulposus (NP), and endplate (EP) were stimulated with human serum alone or with zymosan and treated with either the C3 inhibitor Cp40 or the C5 antibody eculizumab. Complement activation was determined via anaphylatoxin generation and TCC deposition detection. Thereby, induced catabolic effects were evaluated in cultured AF cells. Moreover, C5 cleavage under degenerative conditions in the presence of AF cells was assessed. Zymosan-induced anaphylatoxin generation and TCC deposition was significantly suppressed by both complement inhibitors. Zymosan induced gene expression of ADAMTS4, MMP1, and COX2. Whereas the C3 blockade attenuated the expression of ADAMTS4, the C5 blockade reduced the expression of ADAMTS4, MMP1, and COX2. Direct C5 cleavage was significantly enhanced by EP conditioned medium from DD patients and CTSD. These results indicate that terminal complement activation might be functionally involved in the progression of DD. Moreover, we found evidence that soluble factors secreted by degenerated EP tissue can mediate direct C5 cleavage, thereby contributing to complement activation in degenerated discs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelie Kuhn
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Jana Riegger
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Graciosa Q. Teixeira
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus Huber-Lang
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Trauma Immunology, University Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - John D. Lambris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Cornelia Neidlinger-Wilke
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Rolf E. Brenner
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)731-500-63280
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3
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Bahar ME, Hwang JS, Ahmed M, Lai TH, Pham TM, Elashkar O, Akter KM, Kim DH, Yang J, Kim DR. Targeting Autophagy for Developing New Therapeutic Strategy in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081571. [PMID: 36009290 PMCID: PMC9405341 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a prevalent cause of low back pain. IVDD is characterized by abnormal expression of extracellular matrix components such as collagen and aggrecan. In addition, it results in dysfunctional growth, senescence, and death of intervertebral cells. The biological pathways involved in the development and progression of IVDD are not fully understood. Therefore, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying IVDD could aid in the development of strategies for prevention and treatment. Autophagy is a cellular process that removes damaged proteins and dysfunctional organelles, and its dysfunction is linked to a variety of diseases, including IVDD and osteoarthritis. In this review, we describe recent research findings on the role of autophagy in IVDD pathogenesis and highlight autophagy-targeting molecules which can be exploited to treat IVDD. Many studies exhibit that autophagy protects against and postpones disc degeneration. Further research is needed to determine whether autophagy is required for cell integrity in intervertebral discs and to establish autophagy as a viable therapeutic target for IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Entaz Bahar
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Jin Seok Hwang
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Mahmoud Ahmed
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Trang Huyen Lai
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Trang Minh Pham
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Omar Elashkar
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Kazi-Marjahan Akter
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Dong-Hee Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University Hospital and Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Jinsung Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Deok Ryong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-55-772-8054
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The Proteolysis of ECM in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031715. [PMID: 35163637 PMCID: PMC8835917 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is a pathological process that commonly occurs throughout the human life span and is a major cause of lower back pain. Better elucidation of the molecular mechanisms involved in disc degeneration could provide a theoretical basis for the development of lumbar disc intervention strategies. In recent years, extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis has received much attention due to its relevance to the mechanical properties of IVDs. ECM proteolysis mediated by a variety of proteases is involved in the pathological process of disc degeneration. Here, we discuss in detail the relationship between the IVD as well as the ECM and the role of ECM proteolysis in the degenerative process of the IVD. Targeting ECM proteolysis-associated proteases may be an effective means of intervention in IDD.
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Panebianco CJ, Dave A, Charytonowicz D, Sebra R, Iatridis JC. Single-cell RNA-sequencing atlas of bovine caudal intervertebral discs: Discovery of heterogeneous cell populations with distinct roles in homeostasis. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21919. [PMID: 34591994 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101149r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Back and neck pain are significant healthcare burdens that are commonly associated with pathologies of the intervertebral disc (IVD). The poor understanding of the cellular heterogeneity within the IVD makes it difficult to develop regenerative IVD therapies. To address this gap, we developed an atlas of bovine (Bos taurus) caudal IVDs using single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq). Unsupervised clustering resolved 15 unique clusters, which we grouped into the following annotated partitions: nucleus pulposus (NP), outer annulus fibrosus (oAF), inner AF (iAF), notochord, muscle, endothelial, and immune cells. Analyzing the pooled gene expression profiles of the NP, oAF, and iAF partitions allowed us to identify novel markers for NP (CP, S100B, H2AC18, SNORC, CRELD2, PDIA4, DNAJC3, CHCHD7, and RCN2), oAF (IGFBP6, CTSK, LGALS1, and CCN3), and iAF (MGP, COMP, SPP1, GSN, SOD2, DCN, FN1, TIMP3, WDR73, and GAL) cells. Network analysis on subpopulations of NP and oAF cells determined that clusters NP1, NP2, NP4, and oAF1 displayed gene expression profiles consistent with cell survival, suggesting these clusters may uniquely support viability under the physiological stresses of the IVD. Clusters NP3, NP5, oAF2, and oAF3 expressed various extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated genes, suggesting their role in maintaining IVD structure. Lastly, transcriptional entropy and pseudotime analyses found that clusters NP3 and NP1 had the most stem-like gene expression signatures of the NP partition, implying these clusters may contain IVD progenitor cells. Overall, results highlight cell type diversity within the IVD, and these novel cell phenotypes may enhance our understanding of IVD development, homeostasis, degeneration, and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Panebianco
- Leni and Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Arpit Dave
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Charytonowicz
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robert Sebra
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.,Icahn Institute for Data Science and Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.,Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.,Sema4, a Mount Sinai venture, Stamford, Connecticut, USA
| | - James C Iatridis
- Leni and Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Teixeira GQ, Yong Z, Kuhn A, Riegger J, Goncalves RM, Ruf M, Mauer UM, Huber-Lang M, Ignatius A, Brenner RE, Neidlinger-Wilke C. Interleukin-1β and cathepsin D modulate formation of the terminal complement complex in cultured human disc tissue. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2021; 30:2247-2256. [PMID: 34169354 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-021-06901-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Formation of terminal complement complex (TCC), a downstream complement system activation product inducing inflammatory processes and cell lysis, has been identified in degenerated discs. However, it remains unclear which molecular factors regulate complement activation during disc degeneration (DD). This study investigated a possible involvement of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and the lysosomal protease cathepsin D (CTSD). METHODS Disc biopsies were collected from patients suffering from DD (n = 43) and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS, n = 13). Standardized tissue punches and isolated cells from nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF) and endplate (EP) were stimulated with 5% human serum (HS) alone or in combination with IL-1β, CTSD or zymosan. TCC formation and modulation by the complement regulatory proteins CD46, CD55 and CD59 were analysed. RESULTS In DD tissue cultures, IL-1β stimulation decreased the percentage of TCC + cells in AF and EP (P < 0.05), whereas CTSD stimulation significantly increased TCC deposition in NP (P < 0.01) and zymosan in EP (P < 0.05). Overall, the expression of CD46, CD55 and CD59 significantly increased in all isolated cells during culture (P < 0.05). Moreover, cellular TCC deposition was HS concentration dependent but unaffected by IL-1β, CTSD or zymosan. CONCLUSION These results suggest a functional relevance of IL-1β and CTSD in modulating TCC formation in DD, with differences between tissue regions. Although strong TCC deposition may represent a degeneration-associated event, IL-1β may inhibit it. In contrast, TCC formation was shown to be triggered by CTSD, indicating a multifunctional involvement in disc pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graciosa Q Teixeira
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Zhiyao Yong
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Amelie Kuhn
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jana Riegger
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Raquel M Goncalves
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.,Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Michael Ruf
- Center for Spine Surgery, Orthopedics, and Traumatology, SRH-Klinikum Karlsbad-Langensteinbach, Karlsbad, Germany
| | - Uwe M Mauer
- Department of Neurosurgery, German Armed Forces Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus Huber-Lang
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Trauma Immunology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Anita Ignatius
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Rolf E Brenner
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cornelia Neidlinger-Wilke
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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7
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Teixeira GQ, Yong Z, Goncalves RM, Kuhn A, Riegger J, Brisby H, Barreto Henriksson H, Ruf M, Nerlich A, Mauer UM, Ignatius A, Brenner RE, Neidlinger-Wilke C. Terminal complement complex formation is associated with intervertebral disc degeneration. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2020; 30:217-226. [PMID: 32936402 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-020-06592-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The complement system is a crucial part of innate immunity. Recent work demonstrated an unexpected contribution to tissue homeostasis and degeneration. This study investigated for the first time, in human disc tissues, the deposition profile of the complement activation product terminal complement complex (TCC), an inflammatory trigger and inducer of cell lysis, and its inhibitor CD59, and their correlation with the degree of disc degeneration (DD). METHODS Disc biopsies were collected from patients diagnosed with DD (n = 39, age 63 ± 12) and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS, n = 10, age 17 ± 4) and compared with discs from healthy Young (n = 11, age 7 ± 7) and Elder (n = 10, age 65 ± 15) donors. Immunohistochemical detection of TCC and CD59 in nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF) and endplate (EP) was correlated with age, Pfirrmann grade and Modic changes. RESULTS Higher percentage of TCC+ cells was detected in the NP and EP of DD compared to Elder (P < 0.05), and in the EP of Young versus Elder (P < 0.001). In DD, TCC deposition was positively correlated with Pfirrmann grade, but not with Modic changes, whereas for Young donors, a negative correlation was found with age, indicating TCC's involvement not only in DD, but also in early stages of skeletal development. Higher CD59 positivity was found in AIS and DD groups compared to Young (P < 0.05), and it was negatively correlated with the age of the patients. CONCLUSION TCC deposition positively correlated with the degree of disc degeneration. A functional relevance of TCC may exist in DD, representing a potential target for new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graciosa Q Teixeira
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Zhiyao Yong
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Raquel M Goncalves
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Amelie Kuhn
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jana Riegger
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Helena Brisby
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Orthopedics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Helena Barreto Henriksson
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Orthopedics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Michael Ruf
- Center for Spine Surgery, Orthopedics, and Traumatology, SRH-Klinikum Karlsbad-Langensteinbach, Karlsbad, Germany
| | - Andreas Nerlich
- Department of Pathology, Academic Hospital Munich-Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany
| | - Uwe M Mauer
- Department of Neurosurgery, German Armed Forces Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Anita Ignatius
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Rolf E Brenner
- Division for Biochemistry of Joint and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Orthopedics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Cornelia Neidlinger-Wilke
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Trauma Research Centre, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
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Fan Z, Zhao W, Fan S, Li C, Qiao J, Xu Y. Identification of Potential Biomarkers for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Using the Genome-Wide Expression Analysis. J Comput Biol 2020; 27:1341-1349. [PMID: 31904996 DOI: 10.1089/cmb.2019.0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the major cause of low back pain. The current study was aimed to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying it. Microarray data sets GSE70362 containing Thompson degeneration grades I-V were divided into the control and the degenerative group and were analyzed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened and clustered, followed by functional enrichment analysis. Then the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and the microRNA (miRNA) regulatory network were constructed and integratedly analyzed. Finally, modules from the integrated network were mined, and gene ontology and pathway enrichment analysis were performed. DEGs in three clusters had the overall expression trend with the Thompson grades. The upregulated DEGs were associated with protein transport and localization, while the downregulated DEGs were enriched in membrane lipid metabolic process and endocytosis. After the integrated analysis of PPI and miRNA-target interactions, some hub genes such as HSP90B1, RPS4Y1, RPL15, and UTY, as well as hub miRNAs, including miR-124a and miR-506, were screened. Finally, modules in the integrated network were functionally associated with protein targeting, peptide processing, and metabolic process, as well as protein folding. Taken together, our data showed that the protein synthesis, targeting, and localization can be greatly changed to contribute to the progress of IDD. Besides, the related genes such as RPS4Y1 and HSP90B1 would be used as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongjiang Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
| | - Wanqiu Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, and 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
| | - Shengning Fan
- Department of Orthopaedics, and 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
| | - Chunxiao Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, and 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
| | - Jing Qiao
- Department of Information, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
| | - Yongqing Xu
- Department of Orthopaedics, and 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
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Veras MA, McCann MR, Tenn NA, Séguin CA. Transcriptional profiling of the murine intervertebral disc and age-associated changes in the nucleus pulposus. Connect Tissue Res 2020; 61:63-81. [PMID: 31597481 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2019.1665034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Purpose/Aim: The intervertebral disc (IVD) is composed of cell types whose subtle phenotypic differences allow for the formation of distinct tissues. The role of the nucleus pulposus (NP) in the initiation and progression of IVD degeneration is well established; however, the genes and pathways associated with NP degeneration are poorly characterized.Materials and Methods: Using a genetic strategy for IVD lineage-specific fluorescent reporter expression to isolate cells, gene expression and bioinformatic analysis was conducted on the murine NP at 2.5, 6, and 21 months-of-age and the annulus fibrosus (AF) at 2.5 and 6 months-of-age. A subset of differentially regulated genes was validated by qRT-PCR.Results: Transcriptome analysis identified distinct profiles of NP and AF gene expression that were remarkably consistent at 2.5 and 6 months-of-age. Prg4, Cilp, Ibsp and Comp were increased >50-fold in the AF relative to NP. The most highly enriched NP genes included Dsc3 and Cdh6, members of the cadherin superfamily, and microRNAs mir218-1 and mir490. Changes in the NP between 2.5 and 6 months-of-age were associated with up-regulation of molecular functions linked to laminin and Bmp receptor binding (including up-regulation of Bmp5 & 7), with the most up-regulated genes being Mir703, Shh, and Sfrp5. NP degeneration was associated with molecular functions linked to alpha-actinin binding (including up-regulation of Ttn & Myot) and cytoskeletal protein binding, with the overall most up-regulated genes being Rnu3a, Snora2b and Mir669h.Conclusions: This study provided insight into the phenotypes of NP and AF cells, and identified candidate pathways that may regulate degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Veras
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Matthew R McCann
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Neil A Tenn
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Cheryle A Séguin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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10
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Wei Q, Zhang X, Zhou C, Ren Q, Zhang Y. Roles of large aggregating proteoglycans in human intervertebral disc degeneration. Connect Tissue Res 2019; 60:209-218. [PMID: 29992840 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2018.1499731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Degeneration of the intervertebral discs, a natural progression of the aging process, is strongly implicated as a cause of low back pain. Aggrecan is the major structural proteoglycan in the extracellular matrix of the intervertebral disc. It is large, possessing numerous glycosaminoglycan chains and the ability to form aggregates in association with hyaluronan. The negatively charged glycosaminoglycan side chains in aggrecan in the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral discs can bind electrostatically to polar water molecules, which are crucial for maintaining the well-hydrated state that enables the discs to undergo reversible deformation under compressive loading. A more in-depth understanding of the molecular basis of disc degeneration is essential to the design of therapeutic solutions to treat degenerative discs. Within this scope, we discuss the current knowledge concerning the structure and function of aggrecan in intervertebral disc degeneration. These data suggest that aggrecan plays a central role in the function and degeneration of the intervertebral disc, which may suggest potential aggrecan-based therapies for disc regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingshen Wei
- a Department of Orthopedic Surgery , Rizhao Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital , Rizhao , China
| | - Xiangwei Zhang
- a Department of Orthopedic Surgery , Rizhao Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital , Rizhao , China
| | - Caiju Zhou
- b School of Pharmaceutical Science , Jining Medical University , Rizhao , China
| | - Qiang Ren
- b School of Pharmaceutical Science , Jining Medical University , Rizhao , China
| | - Yuntao Zhang
- b School of Pharmaceutical Science , Jining Medical University , Rizhao , China
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11
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Fernandez-Moure J, Moore CA, Kim K, Karim A, Smith K, Barbosa Z, Van Eps J, Rameshwar P, Weiner B. Novel therapeutic strategies for degenerative disc disease: Review of cell biology and intervertebral disc cell therapy. SAGE Open Med 2018; 6:2050312118761674. [PMID: 29568524 PMCID: PMC5858682 DOI: 10.1177/2050312118761674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration is a disease of the discs connecting adjoining vertebrae in which structural damage leads to loss of disc integrity. Degeneration of the disc can be a normal process of ageing, but can also be precipitated by other factors. Literature has made substantial progress in understanding the biological basis of intervertebral disc, which is reviewed here. Current medical and surgical management strategies have shortcomings that do not lend promise to be effective solutions in the coming years. With advances in understanding the cell biology and characteristics of the intervertebral disc at the molecular and cellular level that have been made, alternative strategies for addressing disc pathology can be discovered. A brief overview of the anatomic, cellular, and molecular structure of the intervertebral disc is provided as well as cellular and molecular pathophysiology surrounding intervertebral disc degeneration. Potential therapeutic strategies involving stem cell, protein, and genetic therapy for intervertebral disc degeneration are further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Fernandez-Moure
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Regenerative and Biomimetic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Caitlyn A Moore
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | | | - Azim Karim
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kevin Smith
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zonia Barbosa
- Department of Regenerative and Biomimetic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey Van Eps
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Regenerative and Biomimetic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Pranela Rameshwar
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Bradley Weiner
- Department of Regenerative and Biomimetic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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12
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Weber KT, Alipui DO, Sison CP, Bloom O, Quraishi S, Overby MC, Levine M, Chahine NO. Serum levels of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 vary based on diagnoses in individuals with lumbar intervertebral disc diseases. Arthritis Res Ther 2016; 18:3. [PMID: 26743937 PMCID: PMC4718017 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-015-0887-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many intervertebral disc diseases cause low back pain (LBP). Proinflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) participate in disc pathology. In this study, we examined levels of serum cytokines and MMPs in human subjects with diagnoses of disc herniation (DH), spinal stenosis (SS), or degenerative disc disease (DDD) relative to levels in control subjects. Comparison between subjects with DH and those with other diagnoses (Other Dx, grouped from SS and DDD) was performed to elaborate a pathological mechanism based on circulating cytokine levels. METHODS Study participants were recruited from a spine neurosurgery practice (n = 80), a back pain management practice (n = 27), or a control cohort (n = 26). Serum samples were collected before treatment and were assayed by multiplex assays for levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13, interferon-γ, tumor necrosis factor-α, MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9. Inflammatory and degradative mediator levels were compared for subjects with LBP and control subjects, by diagnosis and by treatment groups, controlling for effects of sex, age, and reported history of osteoarthritis. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to examine relationships with age, body mass index (BMI), symptom duration, and smoking history. RESULTS Serum levels of IL-6 were significantly higher in subjects with LBP compared with control subjects. Participants with LBP due to Other Dx had significantly higher levels of IL-6 than DH and controls. Serum levels of MMP-1 were significantly lower in LBP subjects, specifically those with DH, than in control subjects. Positive correlations were found between IL-6 levels and BMI, symptom duration, and age. MMP-1 levels were positively correlated with age. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the present clinical study are the results of the first examination of circulating cytokine levels in DDD and SS and provide evidence for a more extensive role of IL-6 in disc diseases, where patients with DDD or SS have higher serum cytokine levels than those with DH or control subjects. These findings suggest that LBP subjects have low-grade systemic inflammation, and biochemical profiling of circulating cytokines may assist in refining personalized diagnoses of disc diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn T Weber
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, North Shore-LIJ Health System, Manhasset, NY, USA.
| | - D Olivier Alipui
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, North Shore-LIJ Health System, Manhasset, NY, USA.
| | - Cristina P Sison
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, North Shore-LIJ Health System, Manhasset, NY, USA. .,Department of Molecular Medicine, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA. .,Department of Population Health, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - Ona Bloom
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, North Shore-LIJ Health System, Manhasset, NY, USA. .,Department of Molecular Medicine, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA. .,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - Shaheda Quraishi
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - M Chris Overby
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - Mitchell Levine
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - Nadeen O Chahine
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, North Shore-LIJ Health System, Manhasset, NY, USA. .,Department of Molecular Medicine, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA. .,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA.
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13
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Krock E, Currie JB, Weber MH, Ouellet JA, Stone LS, Rosenzweig DH, Haglund L. Nerve Growth Factor Is Regulated by Toll-Like Receptor 2 in Human Intervertebral Discs. J Biol Chem 2015; 291:3541-51. [PMID: 26668319 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.675900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) contributes to the development of chronic pain associated with degenerative connective tissue pathologies, such as intervertebral disc degeneration and osteoarthritis. However, surprisingly little is known about the regulation of NGF in these conditions. Toll-like receptors (TLR) are pattern recognition receptors classically associated with innate immunity but more recently were found to be activated by endogenous alarmins such as fragmented extracellular matrix proteins found in degenerating discs or cartilage. In this study we investigated if TLR activation regulates NGF and which signaling mechanisms control this response in intervertebral discs. TLR2 agonists, TLR4 agonists, or IL-1β (control) treatment increased NGF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and IL-1β gene expression in human disc cells isolated from healthy, pain-free organ donors. However, only TLR2 activation or IL-1β treatment increased NGF protein secretion. TLR2 activation increased p38, ERK1/2, and p65 activity and increased p65 translocation to the cell nucleus. JNK activity was not affected by TLR2 activation. Inhibition of NF-κB, and to a lesser extent p38, but not ERK1/2 activity, blocked TLR2-driven NGF up-regulation at both the transcript and protein levels. These results provide a novel mechanism of NGF regulation in the intervertebral disc and potentially other pathogenic connective tissues. TLR2 and NF-κB signaling are known to increase cytokines and proteases, which accelerate matrix degradation. Therefore, TLR2 or NF-κB inhibition may both attenuate chronic pain and slow the degenerative progress in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emerson Krock
- From the Orthopeadic Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill Scoliosis and Spine Research Group
| | - J Brooke Currie
- From the Orthopeadic Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine
| | | | - Jean A Ouellet
- Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill Scoliosis and Spine Research Group
| | - Laura S Stone
- Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill Scoliosis and Spine Research Group, Integrated Program in Neuroscience, Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, and Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal Quebec H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Derek H Rosenzweig
- From the Orthopeadic Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, McGill Scoliosis and Spine Research Group
| | - Lisbet Haglund
- From the Orthopeadic Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, McGill Scoliosis and Spine Research Group,
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14
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Pathomechanisms of discogenic low back pain in humans and animal models. Spine J 2015; 15:1347-55. [PMID: 24657737 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2013.07.490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2011] [Revised: 02/10/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Although explored in humans and animal models, the pathomechanisms of discogenic low back pain (LBP) remain unknown. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to review the literature about the pathomechanisms of discogenic LBP. METHODS Animal models of discogenic pain and specimens from degenerated human intervertebral discs (IVDs) have provided clues about the pathomechanisms of discogenic LBP. Painful discs are characterized by a confluence of innervation, inflammation, and mechanical hypermobility. These three possible mechanisms are discussed in this review. RESULTS Animal models and specimens from humans have revealed sensory innervation of lumbar IVDs and sensory nerve ingrowth into the inner layer of IVDs. Cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukins induce this ingrowth. Nerve growth factor has also been recently identified as an inducer of ingrowth. Finally, disc degeneration induces several collagenases; their action results in hypermobility and pain. CONCLUSIONS To treat discogenic LBP, it is important to prevent sensitization of sensory nerve fibers innervating the IVD, to suppress pathogenic increases of cytokines, and to decrease disc hypermobility.
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15
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Blanquer SBG, Grijpma DW, Poot AA. Delivery systems for the treatment of degenerated intervertebral discs. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2015; 84:172-87. [PMID: 25451138 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is the most avascular and acellular tissue in the body and therefore prone to degeneration. During IVD degeneration, the balance between anabolic and catabolic processes in the disc is deregulated, amongst others leading to alteration of extracellular matrix production, abnormal enzyme activities and production of pro-inflammatory substances like cytokines. The established treatment strategy for IVD degeneration consists of physiotherapy, pain medication by drug therapy and if necessary surgery. This approach, however, has shown limited success. Alternative strategies to increase and prolong the effects of bioactive agents and to reverse the process of IVD degeneration include the use of delivery systems for drugs, proteins, cells and genes. In view of the specific anatomy and physiology of the IVD and depending on the strategy of the therapy, different delivery systems have been developed which are reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B G Blanquer
- MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; Collaborative Research Partner Annulus Fibrosus Rupture Program of AO Foundation, Davos, Switzerland
| | - D W Grijpma
- MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; Collaborative Research Partner Annulus Fibrosus Rupture Program of AO Foundation, Davos, Switzerland; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, P.O. Box 196, 9700 AD Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - A A Poot
- MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; Collaborative Research Partner Annulus Fibrosus Rupture Program of AO Foundation, Davos, Switzerland
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16
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Sakai D, Grad S. Advancing the cellular and molecular therapy for intervertebral disc disease. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2015; 84:159-71. [PMID: 24993611 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The healthy intervertebral disc (IVD) fulfils the essential function of load absorption, while maintaining multi-axial flexibility of the spine. The interrelated tissues of the IVD, the annulus fibrosus, the nucleus pulposus, and the cartilaginous endplate, are characterised by their specific niche, implying avascularity, hypoxia, acidic environment, low nutrition, and low cellularity. Anabolic and catabolic factors balance a slow physiological turnover of extracellular matrix synthesis and breakdown. Deviations in mechanical load, nutrient supply, cellular activity, matrix composition and metabolism may initiate a cascade ultimately leading to tissue dehydration, fibrosis, nerve and vessel ingrowth, disc height loss and disc herniation. Spinal instability, inflammation and neural sensitisation are sources of back pain, a worldwide leading burden that is challenging to cure. In this review, advances in cell and molecular therapy, including mobilisation and activation of endogenous progenitor cells, progenitor cell homing, and targeted delivery of cells, genes, or bioactive factors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Sakai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa 259-1193, Japan; Collaborative Research Partner Annulus Fibrosus Repair Program, AO Foundation, Davos, Switzerland.
| | - Sibylle Grad
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland; Collaborative Research Partner Annulus Fibrosus Repair Program, AO Foundation, Davos, Switzerland.
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17
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Gawri R, Ouellet J, Önnerfjord P, Alkhatib B, Steffen T, Heinegård D, Roughley P, Antoniou J, Mwale F, Haglund L. Link N is cleaved by human annulus fibrosus cells generating a fragment with retained biological activity. J Orthop Res 2014; 32:1189-97. [PMID: 24861010 DOI: 10.1002/jor.22653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Presently, there are no established treatments to prevent, stop or even retard back pain arising from disc degeneration. Previous studies have shown that Link N can act as a growth factor and stimulate the synthesis of proteoglycans and collagens, in IVD. However, the sequences in Link N involved in modulating cellular activity are not well understood. To determine if disc cells can proteolytically process Link N, human disc cells were exposed to native Link N over a 48 h period and mass spectrometric analysis revealed that a peptide spanning residues 1-8 was generated in the presence of AF cells but not NP cells. Link N 1-8 significantly induced proteoglycan production in the presence of IL-1β NP and AF cells, confirming that the biological effect is maintained in the first 8 amino acids of the peptide and indicating that the effect is sustained in an inflammatory environment. Thus Link-N 1-8 could be a promising candidate for biologically induced disc repair, and the identification of such a stable specific peptide may facilitate the design of compounds to promote disc repair and provide alternatives to surgical intervention for early stage disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Gawri
- Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Royal Victoria Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, Canada; Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, Canada; McGill Scoliosis and Spine Center, McGill University, Montréal, Canada; Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
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18
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Akhatib B, Önnerfjord P, Gawri R, Ouellet J, Jarzem P, Heinegård D, Mort J, Roughley P, Haglund L. Chondroadherin fragmentation mediated by the protease HTRA1 distinguishes human intervertebral disc degeneration from normal aging. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:19280-7. [PMID: 23673665 PMCID: PMC3696698 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.443010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Revised: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chondroadherin, a member of the leucine-rich repeat family, has previously been demonstrated to be fragmented in some juveniles with idiopathic scoliosis. This observation led us to investigate adults with disc degeneration. Immunoblotting analysis demonstrated that non-degenerate discs from three different age groups show no chondroadherin fragmentation. Furthermore, the chondroadherin fragments in adult degenerate disc and the juvenile scoliotic disc were compared via immunoblot analysis and appeared to have a similar size. We then investigated whether or not chondroadherin fragmentation increases with the severity of disc degeneration. Three different samples with different severities were chosen from the same disc, and chondroadherin fragmentation was found to be more abundant with increasing severity of degeneration. This observation led us to the creation of a neoepitope antibody to the cleavage site observed. We then observed that the cleavage site in adult degenerate discs and juvenile scoliotic discs was identical as confirmed by the neoepitope antibody. Consequently, investigation of the protease capable of cleaving chondroadherin at this site was necessary. In vitro digests of disc tissue demonstrated that ADAMTS-4 and -5; cathepsins K, B, and L; and MMP-3, -7, -12, and -13 were incapable of cleavage of chondroadherin at this site and that HTRA1 was indeed the only protease capable. Furthermore, increased protein levels of the processed form of HTRA1 were demonstrated in degenerate disc tissues via immunoblotting. The results suggest that chondroadherin fragmentation can be used as a biomarker to distinguish the processes of disc degeneration from normal aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashar Akhatib
- From the Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Patrik Önnerfjord
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund Section for Rheumatology, Molecular Skeletal Biology, Biomedical Center C12, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Rahul Gawri
- From the Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Jean Ouellet
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund Section for Rheumatology, Molecular Skeletal Biology, Biomedical Center C12, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
- McGill Scoliosis and Spine Group, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada, and
| | - Peter Jarzem
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund Section for Rheumatology, Molecular Skeletal Biology, Biomedical Center C12, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
- McGill Scoliosis and Spine Group, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada, and
| | - Dick Heinegård
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund Section for Rheumatology, Molecular Skeletal Biology, Biomedical Center C12, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - John Mort
- Genetics Unit, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1A6, Canada
| | - Peter Roughley
- Genetics Unit, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1A6, Canada
| | - Lisbet Haglund
- From the Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1A4, Canada
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Samartzis D, Karppinen J, Cheung JPY, Lotz J. Disk degeneration and low back pain: are they fat-related conditions? Global Spine J 2013; 3:133-44. [PMID: 24436864 PMCID: PMC3854598 DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1350054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is the world's most debilitating condition. Disk degeneration has been regarded as a strong determinant associated with LBP. Overweight and obesity are public health concerns that affect every population worldwide and whose prevalence continues to rise. Studies have indicated strong associations between overweight/obesity and disk degeneration as well as with LBP. This broad narrative review article addresses the various mechanisms that may be involved leading to disk degeneration and/or LBP in the setting of overweight/obesity. In particular, our goal is to raise awareness of the role of fat cells and their involvement via altered metabolism or the release of adipokines as well as other pathways that may lead to the development of disk degeneration and LBP. Understanding the role of fat in this process may aid in the development of novel biological therapies and technologies to halt the progression or regenerate the disk. Moreover, with genetic advancements and the appreciation of genetic epidemiology, a more personalized approach to spine care may have to consider the role of fat in any preventative, therapeutic, and/or prognosis modalities toward the disk and LBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Samartzis
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Jaro Karppinen
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oulu, and Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jason Pui Yin Cheung
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Jeffrey Lotz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
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20
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Wuertz K, Haglund L. Inflammatory mediators in intervertebral disk degeneration and discogenic pain. Global Spine J 2013; 3:175-84. [PMID: 24436868 PMCID: PMC3854585 DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1347299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although degeneration of the intervertebral disk has historically been described as a misbalance between anabolic and catabolic factors, the role of inflammatory mediators has long been neglected. However, past research clearly indicates that inflammatory mediators such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor-α are expressed at higher levels in "diseased" intervertebral disks. Both disk cells as well as invading macrophages can be the source of the detected cytokines. Importantly, occurrence of inflammatory mediators in the disk can worsen the progress of degeneration by inducing the expression of matrix degrading enzymes as well as by inhibiting extracellular matrix synthesis. In addition, inflammatory mediators play a crucial role in pain development during intervertebral disk herniation (i.e., sciatica) and disk degeneration (i.e., discogenic pain). This review provides information on the most relevant inflammatory mediators during different types of disk diseases and explains how these factors can induce disk degeneration and the development of discogenic and sciatic/radiculopathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Wuertz
- Institute for Biomechanics, D-HEST, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,Competence Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,AOSpine Research Network, Duebendorf, Switzerland,Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,Address for correspondence Dr. Karin Wuertz, PhD Institute for Biomechanics, D-HESTETH Zurich, Schafmattstrasse 30, HPP-O12, 8093 ZurichSwitzerland
| | - Lisbet Haglund
- Competence Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,Orthopeadic Research Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Canada,Dr. Lisbet Haglund, PhD Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Montreal General HospitalRoom C9.173, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, QCCanada H3G 1A4
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21
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Sivan SS, Hayes AJ, Wachtel E, Caterson B, Merkher Y, Maroudas A, Brown S, Roberts S. Biochemical composition and turnover of the extracellular matrix of the normal and degenerate intervertebral disc. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2013; 23 Suppl 3:S344-53. [DOI: 10.1007/s00586-013-2767-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Revised: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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22
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Kepler CK, Ponnappan RK, Tannoury CA, Risbud MV, Anderson DG. The molecular basis of intervertebral disc degeneration. Spine J 2013; 13:318-30. [PMID: 23537454 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2012.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 320] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Revised: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 12/08/2012] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration remains a clinically important condition for which treatment is costly and relatively ineffective. The molecular basis of degenerative disc disease has been an intense focus of research recently, which has greatly increased our understanding of the biology underlying this process. PURPOSE To review the current understanding of the molecular basis of disc degeneration. STUDY DESIGN Review article. METHODS A literature review was performed to identify recent investigations and current knowledge regarding the molecular basis of IVD degeneration. RESULTS The unique structural requirements and biochemical properties of the disc contribute to its propensity toward degeneration. Mounting evidence suggests that genetic factors account for up to 75% of individual susceptibility to IVD degeneration, far more than the environmental factors such as occupational exposure or smoking that were previously suspected to figure prominently in this process. Decreased extracellular matrix production, increased production of degradative enzymes, and increased expression of inflammatory cytokines contribute to the loss of structural integrity and accelerate IVD degeneration. Neurovascular ingrowth occurs, in part, because of the changing degenerative phenotype. CONCLUSIONS A detailed understanding of the biology of IVD degeneration is essential to the design of therapeutic solutions to treat degenerative discs. Although significant advances have been made in explaining the biologic mediators of disc degeneration, the inhospitable biochemical environment of the IVD remains a challenging environment for biological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher K Kepler
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University & Rothman Institute, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses of the rat intervertebral disc (IVD) tissue renin-angiotensin system (tRAS). OBJECTIVE To examine the expression and function of tRAS in the rat IVD. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Angiotensin II (Ang II), the major effector of tRAS, is a hormone that contributes to inflammation and fibrosis in many organs. The expression of tRAS in the rat IVD has not been determined. METHODS tRAS expression in rat and bovine IVDs was examined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (rat) and immunohistochemistry (rat and bovine). Rat annulus fibrosus cells in monolayer culture were used to examine the biological role of tRAS in vitro. The effect of Ang II peptide on extracellular matrix metabolism was assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS mRNA of tRAS components, including angiotensin converting enzyme, Ang II, Ang II receptor type 1, Ang II receptor type 2, and Cathepsin D (a renin-like enzyme), was clearly confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. In rat and bovine annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus cells in monolayer culture, immunohistochemical analysis showed that each tRAS component was clearly expressed. In rat IVD tissues, immunoreactivity to each antibody for tRAS components was also observed. Proliferation of rat annulus fibrosus cells was mildly stimulated by Ang II peptide. Ang II peptide also had minor stimulatory effect on the expression of the extracellular matrix components, growth factors, and catabolic proteins. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate for the first time that the tRAS components necessary to activate tRAS have been found in the normal rat IVD at both mRNA and protein levels. To elucidate the association between tRAS and the process of IVD degeneration, the expression and function of tRAS in the human degenerated IVD should be examined in a future study.
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Smith LJ, Baldo G, Wu S, Liu Y, Whyte MP, Giugliani R, Elliott DM, Haskins ME, Ponder KP. Pathogenesis of lumbar spine disease in mucopolysaccharidosis VII. Mol Genet Metab 2012; 107:153-60. [PMID: 22513347 PMCID: PMC3428127 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2012.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 03/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidosis type VII (MPS VII) is characterized by deficient β-glucuronidase (GUSB) activity, which leads to accumulation of chondroitin, heparan and dermatan sulfate glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and multisystemic disease. MPS VII patients can develop kypho-scoliotic deformity and spinal cord compression due to disease of intervertebral disks, vertebral bodies, and associated tissues. We have previously demonstrated in MPS VII dogs that intervertebral disks degenerate, vertebral bodies have irregular surfaces, and vertebral body epiphyses have reduced calcification, but the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these changes are unclear. We hypothesized that some of these manifestations could be due to upregulation of destructive proteases, possibly via the binding of GAGs to Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), as has been proposed for other tissues in MPS models. In this study, the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disk of 6-month-old MPS VII dogs had cathepsin B and K activities that were 117- and 2-fold normal, respectively, which were associated with elevations in mRNA levels for these cathepsins as well as TLR4. The epiphyses of MPS VII dogs had a marked elevation in mRNA for the cartilage-associated gene collagen II, consistent with a developmental delay in the conversion of the cartilage to bone in this region. The spine obtained at autopsy from a young man with MPS VII exhibited similar increased cartilage in the vertebral bodies adjacent to the end plates, disorganization of the intervertebral disks, and irregular vertebral end plate morphology. These data suggest that the pathogenesis of destructive changes in the spine in MPS VII may involve upregulation of cathepsins. Inhibition of destructive proteases, such as cathepsins, might reduce spine disease in patients with MPS VII or related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan J Smith
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Molecular basis of intervertebral disc degeneration. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2012; 760:114-33. [PMID: 23281517 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-4090-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a disease of the discs connecting adjoining vertebrae in which structural damage leads to degeneration of the disc and surrounding area. Degeneration of the disc is considered to be a normal process of aging, but can accelerate faster than expected or be precipitated by other factors. The scientific community has come a long way in understanding the biological basis and interpreting the lifestyle implications of IVD degeneration. Of all the diseases of the intervertebral disc, degeneration is the most common and has earned much attention due to its diversity in presentation and potential multiorgan involvement. We will provide a brief overview of the anatomic, cellular, and molecular structure of the IVD, and delve into the cellular and molecular pathophysiology surrounding IVD degeneration. We will then highlight some of the newest developments in stem cell, protein, and genetic therapy for IVD degeneration.
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Gruber HE, Ingram JA, Hoelscher GL, Zinchenko N, Norton HJ, Hanley EN. Constitutive expression of cathepsin K in the human intervertebral disc: new insight into disc extracellular matrix remodeling via cathepsin K and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand. Arthritis Res Ther 2011; 13:R140. [PMID: 21880134 PMCID: PMC3239383 DOI: 10.1186/ar3454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2011] [Revised: 07/20/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cathepsin K is a recently discovered cysteine protease which cleaves the triple helical domains of type I to II collagen. It has been shown to be up-regulated in synovial tissue from osteoarthritic and rheumatoid patients, and is a component in normal and nonarthritic cartilage, where it increases with aging. Studies on heart valve development have recently shown that receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) acts during valve remodeling to promote cathepsin K expression. Since extracellular matrix remodeling is a critical component of disc structure and biomechanical function, we hypothesized that cathepsin K and RANKL may be present in the human intervertebral disc. Methods Studies were performed following approval of the authors' Human Subjects Institutional Review Board. Six annulus specimens from healthier Thompson grade I to II discs, and 12 specimens from more degenerate grade III to IV discs were utilized in microarray analysis of RANKL and cathepsin K gene expression. Immunohistochemistry was also performed on 15 additional disc specimens to assess the presence of RANKL and cathepsin K. Results Cathepsin K gene expression was significantly greater in more degenerated grade III to IV discs compared to healthier grade I to II discs (P = 0.001). RANKL was also identified with immunohistochemistry and molecular analyses. RANKL gene expression was also significantly greater in more degenerated discs compared to healthier ones (P = 0.0001). A significant linear positive correlation was identified between expression of cathepsin K and RANKL (r2 = 92.2; P < 0.0001). Conclusions Extracellular matrix remodeling is a key element of disc biology. Our use of an appropriate antibody and gene expression studies showed that cathepsin K is indeed present in the human intervertebral disc. Immunolocalization and molecular analyses also confirmed that RANKL is present in the human disc. Expression of RANKL was found to be significantly greater in more degenerated compared to healthier discs (P = 0.0001). Cathepsin K gene expression levels showed a positive, significant correlation with RANKL expression. Based on these data, we propose that cathepsin K plays a significant role in disc matrix remodeling and in matrix degradation in the proinflammatory cytokine-rich microenvironment of the degenerating disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen E Gruber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, PO Box 32861, Charlotte, NC 28232, USA.
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Panda D, Goltzman D, Jüppner H, Karaplis AC. TIP39/parathyroid hormone type 2 receptor signaling is a potent inhibitor of chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2009; 297:E1125-36. [PMID: 19706789 PMCID: PMC2781349 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00254.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Tuberoinfundibular peptide of 39 residues (TIP39) is a member of the parathyroid hormone (PTH) family of peptide hormones that exerts its function by interacting with the PTH type 2 receptor (PTH2R). Presently, no known function has been attributed to this signaling pathway in the developing skeleton. We observed that TIP39 and PTH2R were present in the newborn mouse growth plate, with the receptor localizing in the resting zone whereas ligand expression was restricted exclusively in prehypertrophic and hypertrophic chondrocytes. By 8 wk of life, PTH2R, and to a lesser degree TIP39, immunoreactivity was present in articular chondrocytes. We therefore sought to investigate the role of TIP39/PTH2R signaling in chondrocytes by generating stably transfected CFK2 chondrocytic cells overexpressing PTH2R (CFK2R). TIP39 treatment of CFK2R clones in culture inhibited their proliferation by restricting cells at the G(0)/G(1) phase of the cell cycle, coupled with decreased expression and activity of cyclin-dependent kinases Cdk2 and Cdk4, while p21, an inhibitor of Cdks, was upregulated. In addition, TIP39 treatment decreased expression of differentiation markers in these cells associated with marked alterations in extracellular matrix and metalloproteinase expression. Transcription of Sox9, the master regulator of cartilage differentiation, was reduced in TIP39-treated CFK2R clones. Moreover, Sox9 promoter activity, as measured by luciferase reporter assay, was markedly diminished after TIP39 treatment. In summary, our results show that TIP39/PTH2R signaling inhibits proliferation and alters differentiation of chondrocytes by modulating SOX9 expression, thereby substantiating the functional significance of this signaling pathway in chondrocyte biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dibiyendu Panda
- Div. of Endocrinology, Dept. of Medicine, Sir Mortimer B. Davis-Jewish General Hosp., 3755 Cote Ste Catherine Road, Montreal, QC, Canada H3T 1E2
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Lotz JC, Hadi T, Bratton C, Reiser KM, Hsieh AH. Anulus fibrosus tension inhibits degenerative structural changes in lamellar collagen. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2008; 17:1149-59. [PMID: 18668268 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-008-0721-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2008] [Revised: 05/16/2008] [Accepted: 07/03/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical stress is one of the risk factors believed to influence intervertebral disc degeneration. Animal models have shown that certain regimes of compressive loading can induce a cascade of biological effects that ultimately results in cellular and structural changes in the disc. It has been proposed that both cell-mediated breakdown of collagen and the compromised stability of collagen with loss of anular tension could result in degradation of lamellae in the anulus fibrosus (AF). To determine whether this may be important in the AF, we subjected entire rings of de-cellularized AF tissue to MMP-1 digestion with or without tension. Biomechanical testing found trends of decreasing strength and stiffness when tissues were digested without tension compared with those with tension. To determine the physiologic significance of tissue level tension in the AF, we used an established in vivo murine model to apply a disc compression insult known to cause degeneration. Afterward, that motion segment was placed in fixed-angle bending to impose tissue level tension on part of the AF and compression on the contralateral side. We found that the AF on the convex side of bending retained a healthy lamellar appearance, while the AF on the concave side resembled tissues that had undergone degeneration by loading alone. Varying the time of onset and duration of bending revealed that even a brief duration applied immediately after cessation of compression was beneficial to AF structure on the convex side of bending. Our results suggest that both cell-mediated events and cell-independent mechanisms may contribute to the protective effect of tissue level tension in the AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey C Lotz
- Orthopaedic Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Le Maitre CL, Hoyland JA, Freemont AJ. Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist delivered directly and by gene therapy inhibits matrix degradation in the intact degenerate human intervertebral disc: an in situ zymographic and gene therapy study. Arthritis Res Ther 2008; 9:R83. [PMID: 17760968 PMCID: PMC2206387 DOI: 10.1186/ar2282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2007] [Revised: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 08/30/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Data implicate IL-1 in the altered matrix biology that characterizes human intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. In the current study we investigated the enzymic mechanism by which IL-1 induces matrix degradation in degeneration of the human IVD, and whether the IL-1 inhibitor IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) will inhibit degradation. A combination of in situ zymography (ISZ) and immunohistochemistry was used to examine the effects of IL-1 and IL-1Ra on matrix degradation and metal-dependent protease (MDP) expression in explants of non-degenerate and degenerate human IVDs. ISZ employed three substrates (gelatin, collagen, casein) and different challenges (IL-1β, IL-1Ra and enzyme inhibitors). Immunohistochemistry was undertaken for MDPs. In addition, IL-1Ra was introduced into degenerate IVD explants using genetically engineered constructs. The novel findings from this study are: IL-1Ra delivered directly onto explants of degenerate IVDs eliminates matrix degradation as assessed by multi-substrate ISZ; there is a direct relationship between matrix degradation assessed by ISZ and MDP expression defined by immunohistochemistry; single injections of IVD cells engineered to over-express IL-1Ra significantly inhibit MDP expression for two weeks. Our findings show that IL-1 is a key cytokine driving matrix degradation in the degenerate IVD. Furthermore, IL-1Ra delivered directly or by gene therapy inhibits IVD matrix degradation. IL-1Ra could be used therapeutically to inhibit degeneration of the IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine L Le Maitre
- Tissue Injury and Repair Group, Research School of Clinical and Laboratory Sciences, The School of Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Judith A Hoyland
- Tissue Injury and Repair Group, Research School of Clinical and Laboratory Sciences, The School of Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Anthony J Freemont
- Tissue Injury and Repair Group, Research School of Clinical and Laboratory Sciences, The School of Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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Aggrecanases and aggrecanase-generated fragments in the human intervertebral disc at early and advanced stages of disc degeneration. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2007; 32:2596-603. [PMID: 17978660 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0b013e318158cb85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A comparative study of aggrecanases and aggrecan fragmentation profile in the human intervertebral disc at early and advanced stages of disc degeneration. OBJECTIVE To determine differences in the content of the aggrecanases and the profile of aggrecan fragmentation in early and advanced stages of disc degeneration using cadaveric human intervertebral discs. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Aggrecanases and aggrecanase-generated aggrecan fragments have been found in human degenerated discs. However, the association between the grade of disc degeneration and the content of the aggrecanases and the profile of aggrecan fragments has not been well studied. METHODS A total of 108 cadaveric donor spines were assessed by MRI T2 imaging and graded based on the Thompson scale. Twelve donor spines (average age, 63 years), each specifically exhibiting 2 different stages (Grade 2 and Grade 4) of disc degeneration at different disc levels, were included in this study. After harvesting the preselected discs, tissue samples were obtained from the center of the nucleus pulposus (NP) and the middle zone of the anulus fibrosus (AF). The amount of the aggrecanases, specifically ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5, and the pattern of aggrecan fragmentation in the isolated tissues were assessed by western blot using specific antibodies. RESULTS In both NP and the AF tissues, the amount of ADAMTS-4 detected was higher in disc tissues with a higher level of degeneration (Grade 4) than in Grade 2 disc tissues with a lower level of degeneration. However, the amount of ADAMTS-5 detected did not differ between the 2 disc tissue grades. The aggrecan fragmentation analysis of these samples demonstrated the presence of aggrecanase-mediated fragmentation in both groups; however, there was no apparent difference in the aggrecan fragmentation profile between discs at early and advanced stages of disc degeneration. CONCLUSION Aggrecanases are involved in aggrecanolysis at both the early and advanced stages of disc degeneration. The aggrecan fragmentation profile analysis demonstrates the involvement of aggrecanases, as well as that of matrix metalloproteinases and/or cathepsins, during disc degeneration.
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Zhao CQ, Wang LM, Jiang LS, Dai LY. The cell biology of intervertebral disc aging and degeneration. Ageing Res Rev 2007; 6:247-61. [PMID: 17870673 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2007.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2007] [Revised: 08/02/2007] [Accepted: 08/07/2007] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration, which mimics disc aging but occurs at an accelerated rate, is considered to be related to neck or low back pain and disc herniation. Degenerated discs show breakdown of the extracellular matrix and thus fail to bear the daily loadings exerted on the spine. Rather than a passive process of wear and tear, disc degeneration is an aberrant, cell-mediated response to progressive structural failure due to aging and other environmental factors such as abnormal mechanical stress. With aging and degeneration, disc cells undergo substantially biologic changes, including alternation of cell type in the nucleus pulposus, increased cell density but decreased number of viable cells as a result of increased cell death and increased cell proliferation, increased cell senescence, and altered cell phenotype which is characterized by compromised capability of synthesizing correct matrix components and by enhanced catabolic metabolism. These changes are involved in the process of disc degeneration through the complicated interactions among them. To retard or reverse disc degeneration, the abnormal conditions of the decreased viable cell population and the altered cell phenotype should be corrected. As potential therapies for disc degeneration, intradiscal protein injection, gene transfer and cell implantation are being understudied in vivo. Suppression of excessive apoptosis and accelerated senescence of disc cells may be other choices for treating disc degeneration. When performing a biologic therapy in order to repair or regenerate the degenerated disc, nutrient and biomechanical factors should also be incorporated, because they are the major causes of the biologic changes experienced by disc cells. Moreover, a very early intervention is indicated by the finding that the onset of human disc degeneration occurs as early as by adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Qing Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092 Shanghai, China
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Paesold G, Nerlich AG, Boos N. Biological treatment strategies for disc degeneration: potentials and shortcomings. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2007; 16:447-68. [PMID: 16983559 PMCID: PMC2229827 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-006-0220-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2006] [Revised: 07/14/2006] [Accepted: 08/15/2006] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in molecular biology, cell biology and material sciences have opened a new emerging field of techniques for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. These new treatment modalities aim for biological repair of the affected tissues by introducing cell-based tissue replacements, genetic modifications of resident cells or a combination thereof. So far, these techniques have been successfully applied to various tissues such as bone and cartilage. However, application of these treatment modalities to cure intervertebral disc degeneration is in its very early stages and mostly limited to experimental studies in vitro or in animal studies. We will discuss the potential and possible shortcomings of current approaches to biologically cure disc degeneration by gene therapy or tissue engineering. Despite the increasing number of studies examining the therapeutic potential of biological treatment strategies, a practicable solution to routinely cure disc degeneration might not be available in the near future. However, knowledge gained from these attempts might be applied in a foreseeable future to cure the low back pain that often accompanies disc degeneration and therefore be beneficial for the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Günther Paesold
- Centre for Spinal Surgery, University of Zürich, Balgrist, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Acosta FL, Lotz J, Ames CP. The potential role of mesenchymal stem cell therapy for intervertebral disc degeneration: a critical overview. Neurosurg Focus 2005; 19:E4. [PMID: 16190603 DOI: 10.3171/foc.2005.19.3.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Low-back pain is the most common health problem for men and women between 20 and 50 years of age, resulting in 13 million doctor visits in the US annually, with significant costs to society in terms of lost time from work and direct and indirect medical expenses. Although the exact origin of most cases of low-back pain remains unknown, it is understood that degenerative damage to the intervertebral disc (IVD) plays a central role in the pathogenic mechanism leading to this disorder. Current treatment modalities for disc-related back pain (selective nerve root blocks, surgical discectomy and fusion) are costly procedures aimed only at alleviating symptoms. Consequently, there is growing interest in the development of novel technologies to repair or regenerate the degenerated IVD. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been found to possess the capacity to differentiate into nucleus pulposus–like cells capable of synthesizing a physiological, proteoglycan-rich extracellular matrix characteristic of healthy IVDs. In this article, the authors review the use of MSCs for repopulation of the degenerating IVD. Although important obstacles to the survival and proliferation of stem cells within the degenerating disc need to be overcome, the potential for MSC therapy to slow or reverse the degenerative process remains substantial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank L Acosta
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143-0112, USA.
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Razaq S, Wilkins RJ, Urban JPG. The effect of extracellular pH on matrix turnover by cells of the bovine nucleus pulposus. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2003; 12:341-9. [PMID: 12883962 PMCID: PMC3467790 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-003-0582-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2003] [Accepted: 06/05/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
It has long been known that very acidic conditions can be found in degenerate discs. The effect of these acid conditions on matrix turnover are, however, unknown. This study aimed to examine the effect of acidity on production of matrix components and on agents which break down the matrix in order to gain insight into the effect of pathological values of pH on matrix turnover. Cells were isolated from the nucleus of bovine discs and from bovine articular cartilage, embedded in alginate beads and cultured at pH levels maintained within the ranges seen in normal and pathological discs: pH 7.4-pH 6.3 for 48 h. Rates of sulphated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and protein synthesis were measured, as well as rates of production of some agents involved in matrix breakdown, i.e. total and activated matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs). The results showed that acid conditions had a profound effect on cell matrix turnover; at pH 6.4, total production of most species measured was inhibited by more than 50% compared to production at pH 7.2; production of sulphated GAGs and of TIMP-1 fell by >90%. However production of active metalloproteinases by disc cells was relatively insensitive to pH, with activity at pH 6.3 not statistically different from that at pH 7.2. These findings indicate that exposure to acid conditions appears particularly deleterious for the disc matrix, as it inhibits the disc cells from synthesising functionally important molecules such as the sulphated GAGs but does not prevent the production of agents able to degrade matrix components. The low values of pH seen in some degenerate discs are thus likely to be involved in breakdown of the disc matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajjad Razaq
- University Laboratory of Physiology, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT UK
| | - Robert J. Wilkins
- University Laboratory of Physiology, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT UK
| | - Jill P. G. Urban
- University Laboratory of Physiology, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT UK
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Current information regarding the biochemical and genetic events that occur during disc degeneration. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1097/00001433-200306000-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Urban JPG, Roberts S. Degeneration of the intervertebral disc. Arthritis Res Ther 2003; 5:120-30. [PMID: 12723977 PMCID: PMC165040 DOI: 10.1186/ar629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 810] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2003] [Accepted: 01/21/2003] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc is a cartilaginous structure that resembles articular cartilage in its biochemistry, but morphologically it is clearly different. It shows degenerative and ageing changes earlier than does any other connective tissue in the body. It is believed to be important clinically because there is an association of disc degeneration with back pain. Current treatments are predominantly conservative or, less commonly, surgical; in many cases there is no clear diagnosis and therapy is considered inadequate. New developments, such as genetic and biological approaches, may allow better diagnosis and treatments in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill P G Urban
- University Laboratory of Physiology, Oxford University, Oxford, UK.
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Hunter CJ, Matyas JR, Duncan NA. The three-dimensional architecture of the notochordal nucleus pulposus: novel observations on cell structures in the canine intervertebral disc. J Anat 2003; 202:279-91. [PMID: 12713268 PMCID: PMC1571084 DOI: 10.1046/j.1469-7580.2003.00162.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells from the nucleus pulposus of young (< 2 years) and old (> 5 years) non-chondrodystrophoid dogs were studied using routine histology, confocal laser scanning microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The architecture of cell structures--from the tissue scale down to subcellular scale--was reported. Clusters of notochordal cells were observed in young nuclei pulposi, ranging from 10 to 426 cells each. These clusters resisted mechanical disruption and showed evidence of cell-cell signalling via gap junctions. Cells (30-40 microm in diameter) within the clusters had a physaliferous appearance, containing numerous large inclusions which ranged from 1 to 20 microm in diameter. The inclusions were surrounded by a dense actin cortex but were not contained by a lipid bilayer. The contents of the inclusions were determined not to be predominantly carbohydrate or neutral lipid as assessed by histochemical staining, but the exact composition of the contents remained uncertain. There were striking differences in the cell architecture of young vs. old nuclei pulposi, with a loss of both cell clusters and physaliferous cells during ageing. These observations demonstrate unique cell structures, which may influence our understanding of the differences between notochordal and chondrocytic cells in the nucleus pulposus. Such differences could have substantial impact upon how we think about development, degeneration and repair of the intervertebral disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Hunter
- McCaig Centre for Joint Injury and Arthritis Research, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN There have been many advances over the past decade in understanding and experimentally modulating biologic aspects of intervertebral disc cell function. An overview of the current state of this biologic research is presented. OBJECTIVES To provide clinicians with a review of important recent advances in biologic studies of the disc and their implications for potential disc therapies. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Historically, anatomic, biochemical, radiologic, and biomechanical studies of the intervertebral disc formed the foundation on which our understanding of disc function was built. Magnetic resonance imaging techniques that allowed viewing of soft tissue components of the disc further advanced imaging capabilities. METHODS Recent publications are reviewed. RESULTS Experimental approaches over the past decade have enabled researchers to look more critically at disc cell function. This is important because disc cell function produces the extracellular matrix components of the disc, which, in turn, shape the disc's subsequent physiologic and biomechanical functions. New approaches to the study of disc cell function, methods to manipulate disc cells, studies of intact discs and disc nutrition, vertebral endplate structure and function, tissue engineering, gene therapy, and the potential of stem cells in disc therapy are reviewed and discussed. CONCLUSIONS Many believe that disc degeneration has a cellular basis. New research is helping us better understand healthy, aging, and degenerating discs. Modern methods to manipulate and modulate disc cell function open exciting and challenging new therapeutic possibilities for future biologic treatments of disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen E Gruber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina 28232, USA.
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