Biomechanical and Endplate Effects on Nutrient Transport in the Intervertebral Disc.

Background: Physical data are lacking on nutrient transport in human intervertebral discs (IVDs), which support regeneration. Our objective was to study nutrient transport in porcine IVDs to determine the effects of biomechanical and physiological factors.

Methods: In vitro testing of whole porcine IVDs was performed under different loading conditions.