This study investigated whether accelerated cellular senescence causes fundamental changes in the ability of disc cells to maintain the intervertebral disc (IVD) matrix thus leading to IVD degeneration. Cells isolated from normal and degenerate human tissue were assessed. The findings of this study indicate that disc cell senescence occurs in vivo and is accelerated in IVD degeneration. Furthermore the senescent phenotype is associated with increased catabolism implicating cellular senescence in the pathogenesis of IVD degeneration.
Arthritis Research & Therapy, 2007, 9, R45.