Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and its receptor in the human and the sand rat intervertebral disc
Author Information
Author(s): Gruber Helen E, Ingram Jane A, Hoelscher Gretchen, Zinchenko Natalia, Norton H James, Hanley Edward N Jr
Primary Institution: Carolinas Medical Center
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the distribution of BDNF and its receptor in the human intervertebral disc and to test for gene expression of BDNF and its receptor in cultured human annulus fibrosus cells.
Conclusion
The study found that BDNF and its receptor are present in the human intervertebral disc, with a significantly higher localization in the outer annulus compared to the inner annulus and nucleus.
Supporting Evidence
- BDNF localization was significantly greater in the outer annulus (32.3%) compared to the inner annulus (8.1%) and nucleus (10.4%).
- Gene expression levels of BDNF correlated positively with increasing levels of intervertebral disc degeneration.
- Immunohistochemical analysis showed a similar pattern of BDNF localization in sand rat intervertebral discs.
Takeaway
This study looked at a special protein called BDNF in the discs of our spine and found it mostly in the outer part, which might help us understand back pain better.
Methodology
The study used immunocytochemistry to assess BDNF localization and microarray analysis for gene expression in cultured human annulus fibrosus cells.
Potential Biases
There is a potential risk of bias due to the use of surgical specimens and the lack of informed consent.
Limitations
The study did not quantitatively assess the BDNF receptor localization and used antihuman antibodies in animal tissues, which may introduce false positives.
Participant Demographics
The study included 31 intervertebral discs from 22 subjects, with a mix of control donors and patients undergoing disc surgery.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.011
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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