Future perspectives of cell-based therapy for intervertebral disc disease

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a primary cause of low back pain and has a high societal cost. Research on cell-based therapies for intervertebral disc disease is emerging, along with the interest in biological therapy to treat disc disease without reducing the mobility of the spinal motion segment. Results from animal models have shown promising results under limited conditions; however, future studies are needed to optimise efficacy, methodology, and safety. To advance research on cell-based therapy for intervertebral disc disease, a better understanding of the phenotype and differentiation of disc cells and of their microenvironment is essential. This article reviews current concepts in cell-based therapy for intervertebral disc disease, with updates on potential cell sources tested primarily using animal models, and discusses the hurdles to clinical application. Future perspectives for cell-based therapies for intervertebral disc disease are also discussed.