Development of a biodegradable scaffold for the repair of degenerated intervertebral discs

Degradation of the intervertebral discs leads to low back pain, an issue that plagues our modern society and the aging populace. Currently, surgical treatments only remove the damaged tissue in the discs, but do not promote the regeneration of the disc, which could result in the need for repeated surgeries. This thesis outlines the research and development of a sponge and cell-based transplant that can promote the regeneration of the disc using clinically approved materials to streamline its application for clinical trials.