Integrating mechanics and physiology to define form and function of the intervertebral disc

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The spine is a complex composite structure intricately comprised of various biological tissues. Specific tissues include tendons, ligaments, bone, and the uniquely designed intervertebral disc (IVD). These tissues, along with muscles and nerves, must work together to provide both flexibility and support in the spine. Damage to any of these structures can result in impairment and dysfunction of the spine and could lead to low back pain. Low back pain is experienced by 80% of the Canadian population at some point in their lives and can be extremely debilitating affecting all aspects of life. This proposal aims to uncover the basic mechanisms of IVD plasticity by examining its form (extracellular matrix, protein composition, cellular content) and function (mechanical properties, ability to resist damage) and how these two properties are intimately linked. Specific questions addressed by the research conducted as part of this proposal will include 1) How does the IVD become damaged? 2) If the IVD is already damaged, how does this affect subsequent tissue breakdown? 3) How do individual components of the IVD adapt to high demanding scenarios to prevent damage? What proteins and cells contribute to this adaptation? Emphasis will be placed on understanding links between mechanical exposures and biological responses in the IVD in order to recognize the association between form and function of this unique structure. Further, natural progressive breakdown of the IVD, or IVD degeneration, will be extensively examined in order to gain further information about this common, yet often debilitating, disorder that occurs with age. The fundamental goal of this research is to determine the intricate relationship between the mechanical and physiological environment of the spine in order to understand how the spine adapts or becomes injured.