Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026
07:25
Ovine Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Model Utilizing a Lateral Retroperitoneal Drill Bit Injury
Published on: May 25, 2017
Lumbar disc degeneration: epidemiology and genetics
Michele C Battié1, Tapio Videman
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alberta, 2-50 Corbett Hall, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada. mc.battie@ualberta.ca
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume
|April 6, 2006
Summary
Heredity, not physical strain, is the primary driver of disc degeneration. Genetic factors explain up to 74% of disc degeneration variance, shifting focus from wear-and-tear to genetic influences.
Area of Science:
- Spinal research
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Disc degeneration was historically viewed as a wear-and-tear process exacerbated by physical loading.
- Recent twin studies indicate occupational and sport-related physical loading plays a minor role in disc degeneration.
- Heredity is now recognized as a dominant factor, explaining significant variance in adult populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the shift in understanding disc degeneration etiology.
- To emphasize the dominant role of genetic influences.
- To discuss limitations in current research due to inconsistent definitions and measurements.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent research and studies on disc degeneration.
- Analysis of twin studies to assess the role of heredity versus physical loading.
- Identification of gene forms associated with disc degeneration since 1998.
Main Results:
- Heredity accounts for up to 74% of the variance in disc degeneration.
- Genetic influences have been confirmed through the identification of specific gene forms.
- Physical loading plays a relatively minor role compared to genetic predisposition.
Conclusions:
- Disc degeneration is predominantly influenced by genetic factors.
- Further research requires standardized definitions and precise measurement methods for disc degeneration.
- Understanding gene-environment interactions is crucial for elucidating disc degeneration mechanisms.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Degenerative Disc Disease I: Introduction
Degenerative disc disease is a chronic condition in which intervertebral discs gradually lose structure and function. It is not infectious or autoimmune; rather, it results from age-related biochemical and mechanical changes, influenced by genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors.Structure and Function of DiscsThe spine contains 23 intervertebral discs that absorb load, distribute forces, maintain spacing, and allow flexibility. Each disc consists of a nucleus pulposus, a gel-like core...
01:23Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
The symptoms of degenerative disc disease arise from a combination of mechanical compression, vascular compromise, and biochemical inflammation, which together disrupt nerve function and produce pain.Mechanical CompressionDisc degeneration reduces height and elasticity, predisposing to herniation of the nucleus pulposus, a major cause of radicular pain. Herniations may be protrusion (bulging with intact annulus), extrusion (nucleus extends beyond disc but remains connected), or sequestration...
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...
01:24Parkinson Disease l: Introduction
Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. It is characterized by motor symptoms such as resting tremors, muscle rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. Patients may notice hand tremors at rest, stiffness during movement, or a shuffling gait. In addition to motor features, non-motor symptoms include sleep disturbances, mood and behavioral changes, constipation, and cognitive impairment, all of which...