Distribution and Polarization of Hematogenous Macrophages Associated with the Progression of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Conclusion.

During the disc degeneration process, BMDMs were observed mainly around the endplate and outside area of the annulus fibrosus, with few in the inside area of annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus. Compared to other IVD area, macrophage polarity and cytokine expression is concomitantly M2-dominant in endplate. Increased hematogenous M2-phenotype macrophages in endplate with progression of IVD degeneration could enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of disc degeneration.

Level of Evidence: N/A

Source: Spine - February 1, 2022 Category: Orthopaedics Tags: BASIC SCIENCE Source Type: research