The Proteolysis of ECM in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is a pathological process that commonly occurs throughout the human life span and is a major cause of lower back pain. Better elucidation of the molecular mechanisms involved in disc degeneration could provide a theoretical basis for the development of lumbar disc intervention strategies. In recent years, extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis has received much attention due to its relevance to the mechanical properties of IVDs. ECM proteolysis mediated by a variety of proteases is involved in the pathological process of disc degeneration. Here, we discuss in detail the relationship between the IVD as well as the ECM and the role of ECM proteolysis in the degenerative process of the IVD. Targeting ECM proteolysis-associated proteases may be an effective means of intervention in IDD.

Automated summary

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a common pathological process that leads to lower back pain. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in disc degeneration is crucial for the development of lumbar disc intervention strategies. This article explores the relationship between the intervertebral disc and the extracellular matrix (ECM), as well as the role of ECM proteolysis in the degenerative process. Targeting proteases associated with ECM proteolysis could be an effective intervention approach for IDD.