Immunohistochemical investigation on type III and VI collagen organization in human intervertebral discs in the neonatal period.

Nine L5-S1 discs from cadavers following death at ages ranging from 28 weeks of gestation to 1 month after birth were analysed immunohistochemically to investigate type III and VI collagen organization in neonatal discs. The annulus fibrosus stained poorly with the anti-type III antibody. The transition zone and the nucleus pulposus showed a fibrillary framework. No clear pericellular staining was detected. Poor staining with the anti-type VI antibody was detected in the annulus. Single pericellular rings were observed in the transition zone and in the nucleus. The pericellular rings were never multilayered. Type III and VI collagen organization in the newborn is similar to that observed in adults and in the aged. Multiple pericellular rings are never observed. Further research on diseased and healthy intervertebral discs may help clarify which disc changes are age-related and which follow on from degeneration.