Unveiling the Gut-Disc Axis: How Microbiome Dysbiosis Accelerates Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Abstract

The gut microbiome (GM), often referred to as the second genome of the human body, plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes and mediates the development of numerous diseases. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is an age-related degenerative spinal disease characterized by the loss of disc height, hydration, and integrity, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Although the pathogenesis of IDD is not fully understood, recent studies suggest that dysbiosis of the gut microbiome may accelerate the progression of IDD through multiple mechanisms. This article begins by discussing the potential relationship between GM dysbiosis and human diseases, followed by a comprehensive review of the regulatory mechanisms of GM in skeletal diseases within the gut-disc axis framework. Furthermore, it explores three potential pathways through which GM dysbiosis may mediate the development of IDD: immunomodulation, bacterial translocation and colonization, and the decomposition and absorption of intestinal metabolites. These pathways can disrupt disc cell homeostasis and promote degenerative changes. Finally, this paper summarizes for the first time the potential therapeutic approaches for delaying IDD by targeting the gut-disc axis, providing new insights into the pathogenesis and regenerative repair strategies for IDD.

Keywords: immunity; inflammation; intervertebral disc degeneration; metabolism; microbiome.

Figure 1

Overview of GM and Human Diseases. GM influences the development of neurological, cardiovascular, and endocrine diseases through multiple pathways.

Figure 2

Possible mechanism of GM-mediated IDD. GM imbalance can accelerate the occurrence and development of IDD through immune regulation, bacterial translocation and colonization, and decomposition and absorption of intestinal metabolites.