MANF safeguards mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane integrity in nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells to maintain homeostasis of the intervertebral disc.
BACKGROUND Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is a leading cause of low back pain, with limited treatment options. The degenerative disc's harsh microenvironment promotes nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells (NP-MSCs) death and hinders self repair. Mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic facto...