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European Spine Journal

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Open Access 01-02-2019 | Original Article

Leptin and the intervertebral disc: a biochemical link exists between obesity, intervertebral disc degeneration and low back pain—an in vitro study in a bovine model

Authors: Anand H Segar, Jeremy C T Fairbank, Jill Urban

Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 2/2019

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify the effects of leptin upon the intervertebral disc (IVD) and to determine whether these responses are potentiated within an environment of existing degeneration. Obesity is a significant risk factor for low back pain (LBP) and IVD degeneration. Adipokines, such as leptin, are novel cytokines produced primarily by adipose tissue and have been implicated in degradative and inflammatory processes. Obese individuals are known to have higher concentrations of serum leptin, and IVD cells express leptin receptors. We hypothesise that adipokines, such as leptin, mediate a biochemical link between obesity, IVD degeneration and LBP.

Methods

The bovine intervertebral disc was used as a model system to investigate the biochemical effects of obesity, mediated by leptin, upon the intervertebral disc. Freshly isolated cells, embedded in 3D alginate beads, were subsequently cultured under varying concentrations of leptin, alone or together with the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β or IL-6. Responses in relation to production of nitric oxide, lactate, glycosaminoglycans and expression of anabolic and catabolic genes were analysed.

Results

Leptin influenced the cellular metabolism leading particularly to greater production of proteases and NO. Addition of leptin to an inflammatory environment demonstrated a marked deleterious synergistic effect with greater production of NO, MMPs and potentiation of pro-inflammatory cytokine production.

Conclusions

Leptin can initiate processes involved in IVD degeneration. This effect is potentiated in an environment of existing degeneration and inflammation. Hence, a biochemical mechanism may underlie the link between obesity, intervertebral disc degeneration and low back pain.

Graphical abstract

These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

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Title: Leptin and the intervertebral disc: a biochemical link exists between obesity, intervertebral disc degeneration and low back pain—an in vitro study in a bovine model
Authors: Anand H Segar
Jeremy C T Fairbank
Jill Urban
Publication date: 01-02-2019
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Spine Journal / Issue 2/2019
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-018-5778-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Leptin and the intervertebral disc: a biochemical link exists between obesity, intervertebral disc degeneration and low back pain—an in vitro study in a bovine model

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Graphical abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Graphical abstract

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