Gene changes that break down spinal shock absorbers may cause back pain

Gene activity changes that trigger breakdown of spinal shock absorbers may cause neck and back pain, new zebrafish research suggests, pointing to future drug targets. In zebrafish lacking a collagen IX gene, spines hardened and fused like human disc disease, preceded by scaffold breakdown. A bisphosphonate drug blocked mineral buildup, while diet restriction or fat-metabolism drugs reduced fusions. Back pain is common and costly; no drugs stop disc degeneration, only surgery. Researchers highlight phosphate and fat metabolism as promising targets, with zebrafish useful for testing treatments.