Role of matrix matalloproteinases and proinflamatory cytokines in regeneration of the intervertebral disc
Intervertebral disc degeneration is an urgent problem of modern medicine. The most frequent symptom associated with intervertebral disc degeneration is back pain with leads to early disability of patients. Cell death, reduction of synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins and destruction of the basic substance due to activation of matrix metalloproteinases are one of the main chain link of intervertebral degeneration which is progressed with the contribution from the proinflammatory cytokines. Modern therapy of intervertebral disc degeneration is aimed not only in reducing the pain, but also in restoration of the functions of the disc through a variety of methods of biological therapy. Different approaches currently under development are targeted at activation of the regenerative processes in the intervertebral disc using injections of bioactive proteins, different types of cells or cell populations, and the stimulators of extracellular matrix production, as well as methods of gene engineering. These methods of biological treatment of degenerated intervertebral discs are promising and could be translated into clinical practice.