PLGA-microspheres carried circ_0003251 alleviate intervertebral disc degeneration via the miR-637/AKT1 axis
Abstract Background Circular RNA (circRNA) plays a pivotal role in regulating nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) function, making it a promising therapeutic target for intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). This study aimed to identify circRNA closely associated with IDD and assess their potential as th...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
BMC
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Journal of Translational Medicine |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-025-06800-z |
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| Summary: | Abstract Background Circular RNA (circRNA) plays a pivotal role in regulating nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) function, making it a promising therapeutic target for intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). This study aimed to identify circRNA closely associated with IDD and assess their potential as therapeutic target. Methods Circ_0003251 was identified via circRNA sequencing and validated in degenerated human nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues. Its properties were characterized using Sanger sequencing, oligo(dT) primers, RNase R treatment, and fluorescence in situ hybridization. Functional experiments assessed its role in vitro, while molecular mechanisms were explored through luciferase reporter assays, RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence. To assess therapeutic potential, circ_0003251 was encapsulated in PLGA (poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)) microspheres (MS) and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Results Circ_0003251 expression was significantly downregulated in degenerated NPCs and NP tissues. Its upregulation enhanced NPCs proliferation, extracellular matrix synthesis, and reduced apoptosis. Mechanistically, circ_0003251 acted as a miR-637 sponge, inhibiting AKT1 suppression and alleviating NPCs degeneration. PLGA MS successfully delivered circ_0003251, enhancing its therapeutic effect and delaying IDD in vivo. Conclusion Circ_0003251 was a promising biomarker and therapeutic target for IDD. PLGA MS delivery ensured effective application, offering a novel strategy for IDD treatment. |
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| ISSN: | 1479-5876 |