Oxidized low-density lipoprotein induced ferroptosis in nucleus pulposus cell contributes to intervertebral disc degeneration via LOX-1/NF-κB/NOX signal.

Journal: International Immunopharmacology
Published:
Abstract

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) activates the NF-κB signaling pathway through LOX-1, contributing to intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Ferroptosis, a lipid peroxidation-driven cell death, is implicated in IVDD. This study investigates the role of ferroptosis in oxLDL-induced IVDD. Nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) were treated with oxLDL, and ferroptosis and NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation were assessed. Bioinformatics analysis, silencing experiments, and inhibitors were used to validate the findings. In oxLDL-treated NPCs, LOX-1 and ferroptosis markers (MDA, Fe2+, lipid ROS) increased, while GSH decreased. These effects were mitigated by Liproxstatin-1 or shLOX-1. NF-κB p65 bound to LOX-1 and NOX1 promoters, forming a positive feedback loop. VAS2870 and Schisantherin A improved NPC viability and reduced ferroptosis. A mouse model showed worsening IVDD and ferroptosis over time. Clinical tissues revealed a strong correlation between LOX-1 and ferroptosis markers. oxLDL induces ferroptosis in NPCs via the LOX-1/NF-κB/NOX loop, advancing IVDD. Disrupting this loop in mice mitigated IVDD, highlighting the therapeutic potential of targeting this pathway.

Authors
Zhonghan Liu, Xinhua Li, Jie Pan, Dongduo Qi, Diankai Wang, Yufeng Huang, Desheng Wu, Lijun Li
Relevant Conditions

Invertebral Disc Disease