Parallel Networks to Predict TIMP and Protease Cell Activity of Nucleus Pulposus Cells Exposed and Not Exposed to Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines.

Background: Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is characterized by a disruption of the balance between anabolic and catabolic cellular processes. Within the nucleus pulposus (NP), this involves increased levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1beta (IL1B) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and an upregulation of the protease families matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS). Primary inhibitors of these proteases are the tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP).