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Growth factors and the intervertebral disc
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Biochemistry, Rush Medical College at Rush University Medical Center, 1725 West Harrison Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
The Spine Journal : Official Journal of the North American Spine Society
|November 16, 2004
Summary
Recombinant growth factors show promise for biologically regenerating the intervertebral disc (IVD). Research indicates their potential as therapeutic drugs or medical devices for IVD repair.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biotechnology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- The concept of intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration via growth factor injection emerged in the early 1990s.
- Industrial-scale production of recombinant proteins, including growth factors, is now established.
- The effects of growth factors on IVD cells are less understood compared to articular cartilage chondrocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on growth factor effects on the IVD.
- To discuss emerging trends in biological repair of degenerated intervertebral discs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review utilizing databases like the National Library of Medicine.
- Inclusion of data from scientific conferences within the last two years.
- Synthesis of in vitro and in vivo study findings.
Main Results:
- Growing evidence supports the biological regeneration of the IVD.
- Growth factors impact IVD cell and tissue metabolism.
- Both recombinant protein injection and gene transfer techniques are employed to study growth factor effects.
Conclusions:
- In vitro and in vivo studies suggest recombinant growth factors hold therapeutic potential.
- Recombinant growth factors may serve as viable therapeutic drugs.
- Recombinant growth factors could be developed as medical devices for IVD repair.