Insights into the Hallmarks of Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells with Particular Reference to Cell Viability, Phagocytic Potential and Long Process Formation

Abstract

Human degenerative NP consists of primarily viable cells. We present direct and in vivo evidence that both human annulus fibrosus and NP cells have phagocytic potential. Moreover, NP cells with long processes exist in both scoliotic and degenerative NP with lack of glucose as one of the possible underlying mechanisms.