Embelin protects against apoptosis and inflammation by regulating PI3K/Akt signaling in IL-1β-stimulated human nucleus pulposus cells.

Embelin is a natural benzoquinone compound that displays a beneficial effect in various inflammatory-related diseases. However, the effect of embelin on degeneration of intervertebral disc (IDD), a chronic inflammatory disorder, has not been reported. This study was attempted to explore the therapeutic action of embelin on IDD in vitro.