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Histochemical study of the human intervertebral disc.
Nihon Seikeigeka Gakkai Zasshi
|July 1, 1979
Summary
Human intervertebral discs contain various glycosaminoglycans. Their presence and staining intensity decrease with age and in herniated discs, indicating disc degeneration.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Histology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Intervertebral disc degeneration is a significant cause of low back pain.
- Understanding the biochemical composition of intervertebral discs is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution and changes in glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) within human intervertebral discs.
- To compare GAGs in healthy discs versus herniated discs and assess age-related changes.
Main Methods:
- Histochemical analysis of human intervertebral disc samples obtained from cadavers and anterior discectomy.
- Detection of chondroitin-4S, chondroitin-6S, dermatan sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and keratan sulfate.
- Assessment of staining intensity (metachromasia and alcianophilia) at different pH levels and salt concentrations.
Main Results:
- All investigated glycosaminoglycans were detected in human intervertebral discs.
- Staining intensity for pH2.5, pH1.1 toluidin blue metachromasia, and 0.4M MgCl2 alcianophilia decreased with age.
- Herniated discs showed weaker staining compared to control discs of the same age group.
- Chondroitin-4S and chondroitin-6S were distributed throughout the discs; keratan sulfate showed some localization.
- No significant histological or histochemical differences were observed between cervical and lumbar discs.
Conclusions:
- Glycosaminoglycan content and staining intensity in human intervertebral discs diminish with aging and disc herniation.
- These biochemical changes correlate with disc degeneration.
- Keratan sulfate exhibits a distinct distribution pattern within the intervertebral disc.