Bioactive Therapies for Degenerative Disc Disease: Current State of the Art and Clinical Applications

Several human studies show positive signals, while research methods and sample sizes continue to develop.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Degenerative disc disease is a significant cause of chronic low back pain, often leading to disability and high health care costs. Current treatments, including physical therapy, pain management, and surgical interventions such as spinal fusion and total disc replacement, do not reverse degeneration. Bioactive therapies offer a potential alternative by targeting the underlying degenerative process. Cell-based therapies, including the use of mesenchymal stem cells and platelet-rich plasma, aim to restore disc structure and function by promoting extracellular matrix production and reducing inflammation. Early studies show potential benefits in pain relief and disc regeneration, but long-term efficacy remains unclear. Nucleus pulposus augmentation and replacement strategies, such as the use of hydrogel implants and in situ curing polymers, are aimed at restoring disc height and biomechanical function. While these strategies are promising, issues such as implant durability and migration require further study. Total disc replacement preserves motion and avoids adjacent-segment disease, but outcomes depend on patient selection and implant design. Despite encouraging results, bioactive therapies still require research to establish long-term safety and effectiveness. Advancements in biomaterials, patient selection criteria, and clinical trials will determine their role in the future ma

Evidence level

Several human studies show positive signals, while research methods and sample sizes continue to develop.

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