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Optical Sectioning and Visualization of the Intervertebral Disc from Embryonic Development to Degeneration
Published on: July 8, 2021
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Notochord Cells in Intervertebral Disc Development and Degeneration
Matthew R McCann1, Cheryle A Séguin1
1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Bone and Joint Institute, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada.
Journal of Developmental Biology
|June 3, 2016
Summary
Intervertebral disc degeneration, a cause of back pain, lacks disease-modifying treatments. Understanding notochord cell roles in disc development and degeneration offers potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Spinal research
- Developmental biology
- Regenerative medicine
Background:
- The intervertebral disc (IVD) is crucial for spinal flexibility and load transmission.
- IVD degeneration is a primary cause of back pain, yet disease-modifying treatments are lacking.
- Current understanding of IVD developmental pathways and degeneration is incomplete.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the developmental processes regulating IVD formation.
- To emphasize the role of notochord-derived cells in IVD homeostasis and degeneration.
- To highlight developmental pathways as potential therapeutic targets for degenerative disc disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of IVD development and degeneration.
- Emphasis on the notochord's role in IVD formation and homeostasis.
- Discussion of small animal models for studying IVD development and degeneration.
Main Results:
- The notochord and its derivatives are critical for IVD formation and maintenance.
- Loss of notochordal influence contributes to IVD degeneration.
- Small animal models are valuable tools for investigating IVD pathologies.
- Specific developmental pathways are linked to degeneration and tissue repair.
Conclusions:
- Understanding notochord cell function is key to comprehending IVD homeostasis and degeneration.
- Identifying developmental pathways involved in degeneration and repair can guide future therapeutic strategies.
- Targeting these pathways may lead to novel treatments for degenerative disc disease.
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