[Sub-endplate microcirculation disturbance directly contributes to intervertebral disc degeneration].
OBJECTIVE
To build sub-endplate microcirculation disturbance animal model and to investigate the potential pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD).


METHODS
Twenty four New Zealand white rabbits were divided into treatment group (Group A) and control group (Group B). In Group A, animals received endotoxin and corticosteroid application to build sub-endplate microcirculation disturbance animal model, validated by microthrombus staining. In Group B, animals were given no drug, but standard feeding. After 3 month, the extent of IVDD was evaluated by the water content, biochemistry analysis, and morphology.


RESULTS
Sub-endplate microthrombus staining confirmed the exist of microcirculation disturbance. The water content and biochemistry components content of disc in Group A were lower than those of disc in Group B, and IVDD was observed in morphology.


CONCLUSIONS
Sub-endplate microcirculation disturbance can directly contribute to IVDD, the nutrients diffusion barrier is the potential pathogenesis of IVDD.
Zheng
Zhao-Min
ZM
Department of Spine Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China. zhengzm1@163.com
Lü
You
Y
Chen
Hui
H
Liu
Hui
H
Zhang
Kui-Bo
KB
Li
Fo-Bao
FB
D000818:Animals; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D005260:Female; D007403:Intervertebral Disc / Q000098:blood supply / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D008833:Microcirculation; D011817:Rabbits; D011897:Random Allocation; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000150:complications* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology