Expression of the RANK/RANKL/OPG system in the human intervertebral disc: implication for the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration

摘要

BackgroundThe expression of the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B (RANK) /RANK ligand (RANKL) /osteoprotegerin (OPG) system and its association with the progression of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration has recently been reported in a human IVD. However, the effect of the RANK/RANKL/OPG system on the matrix metabolism of human IVD cells, especially on the expression of catabolic factors relevant to IVD degeneration, remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the expression of the RANK/RANKL/OPG system, and then to evaluate the effect of this system on the expression of catabolic factors by human IVD cells.