A drug already used for osteoporosis blocked spinal damage in a new study
Genetic changes may set off a chain reaction that causes the spine’s natural shock absorbers to harden and deteriorate.
Genetic changes may set off a chain reaction that causes the spine’s natural shock absorbers to harden and deteriorate.
The short version
- Zebrafish with a faulty collagen-related gene developed mineral buildup and spinal fusion similar to human disc disease.
- Researchers were able to reduce the damage using an existing osteoporosis drug and by targeting fat metabolism.
- The discovery points to several exciting possibilities for future back pain treatments.
What happened
Changes in gene activity may contribute to neck and back pain by damaging the discs that act as the spine's natural shock absorbers, according to new research. A study using zebrafish found that altered gene activity can cause minerals to accumulate within the spine.
Why it matters
This process resembles bone forming where it should not, eventually making spinal tissue unusually hard.
Summary by Nerd News Network. Read the full article at ScienceDaily — Top Science via the links above and below.