Work

ROS-responsive Hydrogel Loaded with Allicin Suppresses Cell Apoptosis for the Treatment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration in a Rat Model

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a common cause of lower back pain, and cell apoptosis plays a key role in its progression. This study explores the therapeutic potential of a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive hydrogel loaded with allicin for treating IVDD. METHODS: Allicin was encapsulated in an ROS-responsive hydrogel, and its controlled release was studied in vitro. Nucleus pulposus cells were treated with hydrogen peroxide to induce apoptosis, and the effects of the hydrogel were examined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. An in vivo rat model of IVDD was also established to assess the efficacy of the treatment. RESULTS: The ROS-responsive hydrogel effectively inhibited apoptosis in nucleus pulposus cells by reducing ROS levels and modulating the expression of apoptotic and antiapoptotic genes. In the rat model, the hydrogel loaded with allicin significantly reduced IVDD, preserving disc morphology and matrix integrity. CONCLUSIONS: ROS-responsive hydrogel loaded with allicin shows potential as a therapeutic approach for IVDD by inhibiting cell apoptosis and reducing disc degeneration in vivo.

Source: World Neurosurgery

DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.10.056

Authors: Ting Zhang, Qing Huang, Liangjie Lu, Ke Zhou, Keqi Hu, Kaifeng Gan

Institutions: Ningbo University, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Spine and Intervertebral Disc Pathology

Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,920