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Updated: Jun 13, 2025

Optical Sectioning and Visualization of the Intervertebral Disc from Embryonic Development to Degeneration
Published on: July 8, 2021
Research Progress on the Role of Cartilage Endplate in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Zhong Ma1,2, Xin Liu1,2, Mingtao Zhang1,2
1Department of Orthopaedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.
Abstract:
Low back pain significantly impacts individuals' quality of life, with intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) being a primary contributor to this condition. Currently, IDD treatment primarily focuses on symptom management and does not achieve a definitive cure. The cartilage endplate (CEP), a crucial nutrient-supplying tissue of the intervertebral disc, plays a pivotal role in disc degeneration. This review examines the mechanisms underlying CEP degeneration, summarizing recent advancements in understanding the structure and function of CEP, the involvement of various signaling pathways, and the roles of cartilage endplate stem cells (CESCs) and exosomes (Exos) in this process. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive reference for future research on CEP. Despite progress in understanding the role of CEP in IDD, the mechanisms underlying CEP degeneration remain incompletely elucidated. Future research poses significant challenges, necessitating further investigations to elucidate the complexities of CEP.
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