As the body ages or experiences stress, senescent cells (SnCs) or “zombie cells” accumulate. These cells release harmful substances that cause inflammation and tissue damage, contributing to age-related diseases like low back pain. The senolytics o-vanillin and RG-7112 help clear senescent cells (SnCs) from human intervertebral discs (IVDs) and reduce the release of harmful inflammatory factors, such as SASP. However, it is still uncertain whether these treatments can effectively relieve low back pain (LBP), which affects millions of people worldwide.
In a new study, McGill University researchers reported on two drugs that target ‘zombie cells’ to treat the underlying cause of chronic low back pain. The findings are exciting, as they offer a novel approach to treating back pain by targeting the cells that drive the condition.
Researchers administered mice two drugs orally — O-vanillin, a natural compound, and RG-7112, a cancer drug — separately and in combination. After eight weeks, the drugs helped remove harmful “zombie” cells from the spine, reduced pain and inflammation, and even slowed or reversed spinal disc damage. Both drugs had positive effects, but they were most effective when used in combination.
It was surprising to learn that an oral treatment could reach the hard-to-access spinal discs. Whether these drugs have the same effect in humans is now the question.
The study unexpectedly included O-Vanillin when researchers decided to test its anti-inflammatory effects. The results showed that it can remove harmful “zombie” cells for the first time. While similar compounds have been used in osteoarthritis and cancer research, they hadn’t been tested for back pain before.
The team plans to enhance o-Vanillin’s structure to increase its duration in the body and improve its effectiveness. These drugs may also help treat other age-related conditions, such as arthritis and osteoporosis.
Journal Reference:
- Matthew Mannarino, Hosni Cherif and Lisbet Haglund et al. Senolytic Treatment for Low Back Pain. Science Advances. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adr1719
