Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells

Description

Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells (HNPCs) are primary chondrocyte-like cells isolated from the human intervertebral discs. They play a critical role in maintaining disc matrix homeostasis and modulating immune responses. HNPCs express hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and secrete cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-10, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). These cells respond to biomechanical stimuli – mechanical stress can transiently enhances their proliferation, while chronic overloading accelerates extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation through matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activation, contributing to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). These cells express mesenchymal markers (CD73+, CD90+, CD44+) and lack hematopoietic markers (CD34-, CD45-). These cells are cryopreserved at early passages and delivered frozen, they exhibits limited proliferative capacity and sensitivity to freeze-thaw cycles.

Application

• Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells (HNPCs) serve as an in vitro model for investigating cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Researchers utilize these cells to study ECM metabolism under mechanical stress or inflammatory cytokine exposure, including IL-1β and TNF-α. HNPCs are employed in tissue engineering to evaluate biocompatibility and regenerative potential of biomaterials such as collagen scaffolds or hydrogel systems. Their cytokine secretion profiles (IL-6, IL-10, and GM-CSF) support analysis of immune modulation during degenerative processes. Moreover, HNPCs are employed in drug screening to test therapeutic agents targeting MMP inhibition, enhancing aggrecan synthesis or promoting disc repair.