Stimulation of Gene Expression and Loss of Anular Architecture Caused by Experimental Disc Degeneration–An In Vivo Animal Study

• DOI: 10.1097/01.brs.0000186591.17114.e9
• Publication Date: 2005-11-11T09:01:01Z
• Authors: Thorsten Guehring; Georg W. Omlor; Helga Lorenz; Helge Bertram; Eric Steck; Wiltrud Richter; Claus Carstens; Markus Kroeber
• Keywords: Osteonectin; Biglycan; Aggrecan; Intervertebral Disc; Matrix Metalloproteinase 3

An external compression model was used to evaluate gene and protein expression in intervertebral discs with moderate disc degeneration.To determine messenger ribonucleic acid levels of relevant components.An animal mechanically induced degeneration developed characterized histologically. However, little is known at the molecular level degeneration.There were 8 New Zealand white rabbits subjected monosegmental posterior induce degeneration. Twelve animals served as controls or sham controls. Discs analyzed using immunohistochemistry for collagen type 1 (COL1), COL2, aggrecan, bone morphogenetic protein-2/4 (BMP-2/4). For analysis, conventional quantitative polymerase chain reactions COL1A2, COL2A1, BMP-2, biglycan, decorin, osteonectin, fibromodulin, fibronectin, matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), tissue inhibitor MMP-1. Gene nontreated, sham-treated, compressed quantified relation housekeeping glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase.Immunohistochemistry showed a loss anular architecture, significant reduction BMP-2/4 COL2 positive cells. analysis up-regulation MMP-1, MMP-13 discs.Experimental by cells, although constituents, catabolic enzymes, growth factors stimulated reestablish integrity.