Work

Therapeutic potential of quercitrin in intervertebral disc degeneration: Targeting pyroptosis and inflammation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the predominant cause of low back pain (LBP), that leads to significant disability and imposes a substantial socioeconomic burden. Despite its prevalence, effective treatment for IDD has yet to be fully established. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of quercitrin (QUE) in IDD development and to elucidate its underlying mechanisms.Methods:: In vitro, we investigated the effects of QUE on ECM metabolism, inflammatory response and pyroptosis in IL-1β-stimulated nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), along with the potential mechanisms. In vivo, mice lumbar spinal instability (LSI) was established to determined the impact of QUE on IDD progression.Results: QUE significantly alleviated inflammation and maintained the ECM homeostasis under IL-1β stimulation in NPCs. Moreover, QUE appeared to inhibit pyroptosis, which was closely related to intense inflammatory response. Notably, the protective effects of QUE was abrogated upon inhibition of TRIM31 activity, indicating that TRIM31 mediated pyroptosis suppression is crucial for the therapeutic effects of QUE.Con clusion: QUE plays an important role in alleviating pyroptosis and inflammation within NPCs, thereby slowing the progression of IDD. Therefore, QUE might emerge as a promising therapeutic candidate for IDD, holding the potential for clinical application in the future.

Source: International Immunopharmacology

DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2025.114680