The intervertebral discs play an important role in the flexibility and resilience of our spine. As we age, and often before the age of forty, these discs deteriorate. This leads to less smooth movement and sometimes pain. The deterioration is caused by a complex interplay of changes in the cells and tissues of the discs.
Researchers discovered that improving the function of the mitochondria, the power plants of our cells, can slow down this decline. A protein called SIRT3 plays a key role in this. By making this protein more active, the mitochondria recover better and the ageing of cells in the intervertebral discs is reduced.
The study in mice shows that stimulating SIRT3 not only improves energy production, but can also counteract damage in the cartilage of the discs. This mechanism works by reducing so-called aged or ‘senescent’ cells, which normally cause further deterioration.
Intervertebral disc health is essential for an active lifestyle in later life. This research offers new hope for preventing and better treating back and spinal problems.
Source: Reason
