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Related Experiment Videos

Neuropeptides in the human intervertebral disc

I K Ashton1, S Roberts, D C Jaffray

  • 1Centre for Spinal Studies, Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, Shropshire; England.

Journal of Orthopaedic Research : Official Publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society
|March 1, 1994
PubMed
Summary

Nerve fibers were found in the outer human intervertebral disc (annulus fibrosus), suggesting a potential source for back pain. No innervation was detected in the disc

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Anatomy
  • Pain Research

Background:

  • The human intervertebral disc (IVD) is crucial for spinal function.
  • Understanding IVD innervation is key to diagnosing and treating back pain.
  • Previous studies on IVD innervation remain inconclusive.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the innervation of the human intervertebral disc using immunochemical methods.
  • To identify specific nerve markers and their distribution within the IVD.

Main Methods:

  • Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect nerve markers.
  • Human intervertebral discs (n=12) were obtained during anterior arthrodesis for back pain.
  • Antibodies against general nerve markers (PGP 9.5) and neuropeptides (CGRP, Substance P, VIP, NPY) were used.

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Main Results:

  • Protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5)-immunoreactive nerve fibers were present in the outer annulus fibrosus of 11/12 discs.
  • These fibers extended up to 3 mm into the annulus, running between collagen lamellae.
  • No innervation was observed in the nucleus pulposus.
  • Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and Substance P fibers were found in 8/12 and 4/12 annuli, respectively.
  • Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and NPY-associated peptide fibers were detected in most samples.

Conclusions:

  • The outer annulus fibrosus of the human intervertebral disc is innervated.
  • The presence of sensory neuropeptides suggests a role for these nerves in pain signaling.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the precise function of IVD innervation in back pain.