Role of oxidative stress in mitochondrial dysfunction and their implications in intervertebral disc degeneration: Mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

This review discusses how oxidative stress damages the intervertebral discs, leading to lower back pain. It focuses on the role of mitochondria, the cell's energy source, and how their dysfunction contributes to this degeneration. The review explores potential therapeutic targets, suggesting that antioxidants and mitochondrial-specific treatments could alleviate symptoms and improve patients' quality of life. The article emphasizes personalized treatment plans based on assessing a patient's oxidative stress and mitochondrial function to develop targeted and effective IVDD management strategies.

• 1
  Excessive ROS causes oxidative damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids within IVD cells, disrupting normal cell signaling and regulation pathways.
• 2
  Oxidative stress in IVD cells leads to collagen oxidation, proteoglycan degradation, and modulation of proteases associated with the ECM, affecting its structural integrity.
• 3
  Excessive ROS actively participate in the regulation and maintenance of inflammatory reactions and drive the progression of inflammation in IVD tissues.