Procr and nucleus pulposus progenitor cells

Progenitor cells are cells that have the ability to differentiate into a specific cell type. In the intervertebral disc (IVD), there are two types of progenitor cells: the annulus fibrosus (AF) progenitor cells and the nucleus pulposus (NP) progenitor cells.

The AF progenitor cells are located in the outer layer of the disc, known as the annulus fibrosus. These cells have the ability to differentiate into fibroblasts, which are the cells responsible for producing the collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins that make up the annulus fibrosus.

The NP progenitor cells, on the other hand, are located in the center of the disc, known as the nucleus pulposus. These cells have the ability to differentiate into chondrocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing the proteoglycans and other extracellular matrix proteins that make up the nucleus pulposus.

Both types of progenitor cells are important for maintaining the health and function of the IVD. However, as we age, the number and function of these cells can decrease, which can contribute to the development of degenerative disc disease. Therefore, researchers are exploring ways to use these progenitor cells to promote disc regeneration and repair