Influence of the Intervertebral Disc Microenvironment on Matrix Synthesis and Metabolism in Goat Nucleus Pulposus Cells.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The intervertebral disc (IVD) microenvironment plays a crucial role in cellular function and viability. Although the precise cause of IVD degeneration remains unclear, it is associated with progressive disruption of nutrient, metabolite, and pH homeostasis. Despite growing interest in regenerative therapies, the complex IVD microenvironment is often overlooked in preclinical development. This study investigates the effects of clinically relevant combinations of oxygen, glucose, pH, and osmolarity on the metabolic activity and matrix synthesis of goat nucleus pulposus (NP) cells.

Materials and methods

Goat NP cells were embedded in 3D alginate beads and exposed to 24 distinct microenvironments across four factors in combination: oxygen (2% and 5%), glucose (0.5 and

SUBMITTER: Wilson N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12801399 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature