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A low back pain gene? A study this last week reported that a gene had been identified that was linked to low back pain. In particular, the gene seems to be related to patients who have low back discs that degenerate more quickly. In addition, the bad backs are linked to a form of the gene that is switched off, meaning that epigentic factors (things in the environment) could be causing the problem. What does that have to do with stem cells? If you look up the normal function of the gene, it gets more interesting in how or why it may be associated with bad discs. The Park2 gene (aka Parkin) is involved in getting rid of worn out of badly produced proteins. The gene is also responsible for keeping cells healthy and when functional, protects nerve cells (hence a possible reason it’s associated with Parkinson’s).
So how in the world could this gene be linked to discs that degenerate faster? Disc degeneration is a game of keeping the cells inside the disc alive and functioning so they can produce special chemicals (called GAGs) that hold onto water and allow the disc to remain a good shock absorber. Degeneration has also been recently been linked to complex interplay of nerve related inflammation, so it;s possible that a good Park2 gene can either help protect these nerve cells or the cells inside the disc that produce GAGs to keep it plumped up. This has an implication for cellular therapies, as activating a turned off Park2 gene may be needed for long term success of repopulating the disc with cells that can hold onto water.
The upshot? Something is turning off this gene in patients with bad discs….now the question is what and how to turn the genetic switch back on? If you’re wondering about the illustration above, it’s the Park2 gene superimposed on a low back…so much for a little artistic license!
Chris Centeno, MD is a specialist in regenerative medicine and the new field of Interventional Orthopedics. Centeno pioneered orthopedic stem cell procedures in 2005 and is responsible for a large amount of the published research on stem cell use for orthopedic applications.
Regenerative procedures are commonly used to treat musculoskelatal trauma, overuse injuries, and degenerative issues, including failed surgeries.
Shoulder
Many Shoulder and Rotator Cuff injuries are good candidates for regenerative treatments. Before considering shoulder arthroscopy or shoulder replacement, consider an evaluation of your condition with a regenerative treatment specialist.
Many spine injuries and degenerative conditions are good candidates for regenerative treatments and there are a number of studies showing promising results in treating a wide range of spine problems. Spine surgery should be a last resort for anyone, due to the cascade of negative effects it can have on the areas surrounding the surgery. And epidural steroid injections are problematic due to their long-term negative impact on bone density.
Knees are the target of many common sports injuries. Sadly, they are also the target of a number of surgeries that research has frequently shown to be ineffective or minimally effective. Knee arthritis can also be a common cause for aging athletes to abandon the sports and activities they love. Regenerative procedures can be used to treat a wide range of knee injuries and conditions. They can even be used to reduce pain and delay knee replacement for more severe arthritis.
Many spine injuries and degenerative conditions are good candidates for regenerative treatments and there are a number of studies showing promising results in treating a wide range of spine problems. Spine surgery should be a last resort for anyone, due to the cascade of negative effects it can have on the areas surrounding the surgery. And epidural steroid injections are problematic due to their long-term negative impact on bone density.
Hand and wrist injuries and arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and conditions relating to overuse of the thumb, are good candidates for regenerative treatments. Before considering surgery, consider an evaluation of your condition with a regenerative treatment specialist.
Hand and Wrist Arthritis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Trigger Finger
Thumb Arthritis (Basal Joint, CMC, Gamer’s Thumb, Texting Thumb)
Hip injuries and degenerative conditions become more common with age. Do to the nature of the joint, it’s not quite as easy to injure as a knee, but it can take a beating and pain often develops over time. Whether a hip condition is acute or degenerative, regenerative procedures can help reduce pain and may help heal injured tissue, without the complications of invasive surgical hip procedures.
Foot and ankle injuries are common in athletes. These injuries can often benefit from non-surgical regenerative treatments. Before considering surgery, consider an evaluation of your condition with a regenerative treatment specialist.
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*DISCLAIMER: Like all medical procedures, Regenexx® Procedures have a success and failure rate. Patient reviews and testimonials on this site should not be interpreted as a statement on the effectiveness of our treatments for anyone else.
Providers listed on the Regenexx website are for informational purposes only and are not a recommendation from Regenexx for a specific provider or a guarantee of the outcome of any treatment you receive.
