In vitro differentiation of pluripotent stem cells towards notochordal-like cells

The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a joint in the spine that is comprised of three major structures, the nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF) and cartilaginous endplate (EP). The NP is a proteoglycan-rich structure which contains a heterogenous population including the presence of progenitors such as the notochordal-like cells (NLCs) and NP cells, which are responsible for the synthesis and turnover of extracellular matrix in the NP. During aging and degeneration, there is a loss of cells, hydration, and changes in the ECM, that leads to the alterations in the biomechanical function of the IVD. The replenishment of cells, in particular, the progenitors are a potential therapy for IVD degeneration. However, a major challenge lies in obtaining sufficient numbers of healthy cells for treatment. This study used a 3 part protocol to differentiate pluripotent stem cells into NLCs in vitro.