2018 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting-520. Potential of Human NP-like Cells Derived From Umbilical Cord to Treat Degenerative Disc Disease: Novel Mechanism for Disk Regeneration

520. Potential of Human NP-like Cells Derived From Umbilical Cord to Treat Degenerative Disc Disease: Novel Mechanism for Disk Regeneration

Back to course

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Perez-Cruy discusses the potential use of human NP-like cells derived from umbilical cords to treat degenerative disc disease. The unique anatomy of the nucleus pulposus and the disc make it ideal for stem cell applications. The process of disc degeneration is examined using a model created in rabbits. The researchers harvest mesenchymal stem cells from umbilical cords, differentiate them into nucleus pulposus-like cells, label them, and inject them into the degenerated discs to assess their regenerative capabilities. MRI images show promising results, indicating disc height regeneration and similar results to control discs in terms of nucleus pulposus percentage, water content, glucose amino content, cellularity, and glucose amino glycan matrix production. The study also reveals that nucleus pulposus cells are more effective in expressing proteins and genes related to disc regeneration compared to undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells. The TGF-beta pathway is identified as a potential target for disc regeneration. The video concludes by highlighting the importance of collaborative research and introducing proprietary technology for disc height regeneration followed by the injection of differentiated nucleus pulposus cells.

Asset Caption

Mick J. Perez-Cruet, MD, FAANS

Keywords

degenerative disc disease

stem cell applications

regenerative capabilities

TGF-beta pathway

collaborative research