Beta-defensin 1 knockdown ameliorates the characteristics of intervertebral disc degeneration in a rat model by altering nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus cell phenotypes via suppression of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling pathway.

Objective: Beta-defensin 1 (DEFB1), is a member of the defensin family involved in inflammation, cell apoptosis and senescence. We hypothesized that DEFB1 is essential for intervertebral disc (IVD) homeostasis. Our objective was to elucidate the roles of DEFB1 in IVD degeneration (IDD).