procr protein and human intervertebral discs

Proteoglycans (PGs) are major components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of human intervertebral discs (IVDs) and are responsible for maintaining the hydration and compressive properties of the disc. The PGs in IVDs are composed of a core protein and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains. The core protein of PGs in IVDs includes aggrecan, versican, and decorin.

Aggrecan is the most abundant PG in IVDs and is responsible for the compressive properties of the disc. It has been shown that the expression of aggrecan is regulated by the transcription factor Sox9. In addition, studies have shown that the expression of aggrecan is decreased in degenerated IVDs.

Versican is another PG found in IVDs and is involved in the regulation of cell adhesion and migration. Decorin is a smaller PG found in IVDs and is involved in the regulation of collagen fibrillogenesis.

Overall, the core protein of PGs plays a critical role in maintaining the structure and function of IVDs. Dysfunction of these proteins can lead to disc degeneration and associated back pain