Key Takeaways & Executive Findings
- •• Transcriptomics and proteomics provide complementary insights into the molecular mechanisms of intervertebral disc degeneration, revealing key regulatory networks and protein dynamics. • Combined omics approaches identify potential diagnostic biomarkers such as miR-26a-5p and serum trypsin inhibitor family A1 for early detection and progression prediction. • Integration of transcriptomic and proteomic data highlights critical signaling pathways (MAPK, PI3K/AKT) and therapeutic targets (AKR1C3, daphnetin) for intervention. • The synergistic application of these technologies enhances the understanding of disc degeneration pathology and supports the development of precision treatments.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Intervertebral disc degeneration is a chronic spinal disease characterized by accelerated apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells and decomposition of the extracellular matrix, which often leads to low back pain and spinal dysfunction. The molecular mechanism has not been fully understood, hindering the development of precision treatment strategies. Transcriptomics technology can be used to deeply analyze gene expression patterns, and proteomics technology can be used to identify protein function dynamics. The combined application of these two technologies provides an important means to elucidate the pathological mechanism of intervertebral disc degeneration. OBJECTIVE: To review the research progress of transcriptomics and proteomics technologies in intervertebral disc degeneration, and discuss the key roles of these two omics technologies in analyzing molecular mechanisms, screening diagnostic markers, and exploring therapeutic targets. METHODS: A computerized search of relevant literature published from January 1995 to April 2025 in PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, and Sinomed databases was performed. Chinese search terms were "transcriptomics, ribonucleic acid sequencing, proteomics, intervertebral disc degeneration, nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, cartilage endplate" and English search terms were "transcriptomics, ribonucleic acid sequencing, proteomics, intervertebral disc degeneration, nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, cartilage endplate". After excluding duplicate and irrelevant literature, 24 articles were included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Transcriptomics studies have elucidated the dynamic evolution of gene expression in intervertebral disc degeneration, revealing key regulatory networks involved in apoptosis, inflammatory response, and matrix degradation. Proteomics has deeply analyzed the dynamic changes in protein composition in the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus, emphasizing the key functions of matrix metalloproteinases and cytokines in matrix degradation. The combination of the two provides a multi-dimensional perspective on the molecular mechanisms of intervertebral disc degeneration, enhancing the depth of mechanistic research. Comprehensive analysis indicates that the synergistic application of transcriptomics and proteomics shows significant potential in revealing the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets of intervertebral disc degeneration.
1. Introduction
Intervertebral disc degeneration is a chronic spinal disease closely related to aging, often characterized by accelerated apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells and decomposition of the extracellular matrix [1]. It is one of the main factors leading to low back pain and spinal dysfunction. With aging, the degeneration process accelerates, causing severe pain and significantly affecting the quality of life of patients [2-3].
Current clinical treatments for intervertebral disc degeneration mainly include conservative drug therapy and surgical intervention, which only temporarily relieve pain symptoms and cannot fundamentally solve the underlying problems of disc degeneration [4]. At present, research on intervertebral disc degeneration by domestic and foreign scholars is insufficient, limiting the development of precision treatment. The application of molecular biology techniques provides a new pathway for in-depth study of the underlying mechanisms of intervertebral disc degeneration. Transcriptomics and proteomics are disciplines that study gene transcription and protein expression at the molecular level, respectively. Both analytical methods can provide rich biological information, but each has its limitations. By comprehensively analyzing these two "omics" datasets, a more complete understanding of disease mechanisms can be achieved. Although metabolomics also plays an important role in disease research, especially in revealing metabolic changes during disease processes, its application in intervertebral disc degeneration is currently limited and needs further expansion. This article will focus on reviewing the application progress of transcriptomics and proteomics technologies in intervertebral disc degeneration research.
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ZHOU Tianle, WANG Wei, ZHANG Zhiwen, LIU Ximing (2026). Application and progress of transcriptomics and proteomics techniques in the study of intervertebral disc degeneration. Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research. https://doi.org/10.12307/2026.21256
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main techniques used in transcriptomics and proteomics for studying intervertebral disc degeneration?
Transcriptomics primarily uses high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to analyze gene expression profiles, while proteomics employs mass spectrometry to identify and quantify proteins. These techniques help reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying intervertebral disc degeneration.
How do transcriptomics and proteomics complement each other in intervertebral disc degeneration research?
Transcriptomics provides information on gene expression changes, while proteomics reveals the actual protein abundance and modifications. Combining both allows a more comprehensive understanding of the disease mechanisms, as mRNA levels do not always correlate with protein levels due to post-transcriptional and post-translational regulations.
What are some potential biomarkers identified through transcriptomics and proteomics for intervertebral disc degeneration?
Transcriptomics has identified biomarkers such as miR-26a-5p, while proteomics has found proteins like heat shock protein 70 family member 8 and serum trypsin inhibitor family A1. These biomarkers may aid in early diagnosis and progression prediction of intervertebral disc degeneration.
What therapeutic targets have been discovered using these omics approaches?
Studies have identified potential therapeutic targets such as aldo-keto reductase family 1 member C3 (AKR1C3) and signaling pathways like MAPK and PI3K/AKT. Additionally, compounds like daphnetin and dihydroartemisinin have shown promise in delaying degeneration by modulating these targets.
What is the significance of combining transcriptomics and proteomics in intervertebral disc degeneration research?
Combining these omics approaches provides a multi-dimensional view of the disease, enhancing the depth of mechanistic research. It helps in identifying key regulatory networks, biomarkers, and therapeutic targets, thereby facilitating the development of precision treatments for intervertebral disc degeneration.
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