Collecting samples for analysis of 3D culture of nucleus pulposus cells in a fibronectin peptide-modified dextran vinylsulfone hydrogel in the Interdisciplinary Research and Commercialization Building (IRCB) in Tallahassee, Florida. (Scott Holstein/FAMU-FSU College of Engineering)
Scientists develop innovative fibronectin-targeting therapy using advanced hydrogel technology
Every year, millions of people suffer from the relentless ache of low back pain, with degenerative disc disease robbing them of life’s simple joys. But hope is on the horizon.
A dynamic team of researchers from the joint FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is diving deep into the complexities of this condition, working on groundbreaking solutions that could transform the lives of countless individuals.
NIH-Funded Research Targets Root Causes
Assistant Professor Tristan P. Driscoll from Florida State University is leading the study, which is supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Driscoll and a team of researchers from the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering recently published their work in the journal Advanced Biology.
“Degenerative disc disease is a pressing public health issue that affects millions of people, and as we age or experience injuries, our intervertebral discs undergo changes that can lead to stiffness and loss of functionality,” Driscoll said.
The problem lies with the resilient spongy discs that cushion our vertebrae. These discs can suffer damaging changes, stiffening and losing their vital shock-absorbing capabilities over time. By understanding the cellular mechanisms involved, scientists can develop more effective treatment strategies.
Fibronectin: The Key Protein Behind Disc Degeneration
Fibronectin is a protein that helps cells stick to the surrounding connective tissue. It plays an important role in wound healing and also a role in the inflammation associated with the soft center of spinal discs during degeneration. As people get older or after an injury, more fibronectin builds up, which might lead to problems with the discs in the spine.
“Healthy discs have less fibronectin and as discs deteriorate, fibronectin is deposited, leading to inflammation and damage due to fibrotic remodeling,” Driscoll explains. “This damage results in less aggrecan, a key substance that keeps the discs in our back hydrated and flexible.”
Breakthrough Hydrogel Technology Reveals Solutions
To identify the specific regions of fibronectin that induce this fibrotic remodeling, the researchers generated specially designed hydrogel materials modified with different fibronectin peptides to see how they responded.
“We found that certain peptides showed more inclination towards inflammation and fibrosis. By modifying the hydrogels with an alternative laminin derived peptide, we were able to encourage healthier tissue behavior,” Driscoll said.
The researchers successfully identified the specific parts of fibronectin that cause these destructive changes. They also made discoveries about tissue repair, which cells produced fibronectin, and how peptides affected the production of important molecules for healthy discs.
Future Therapeutic Applications
The ongoing research into degenerative disc disease addresses significant challenges associated with an aging global population and aims to enhance our understanding of these conditions. The researchers hope to create targeted therapies to block harmful fibronectin interactions and use promising hydrogel systems to deliver healing factors directly to injured discs.
“Understanding these cellular changes could lead to earlier detection and intervention to prevent disc problems and the low back pain they are closely associated with,” noted Driscoll, emphasizing the potential for new diagnostic tools.
This work offers hope for millions suffering from chronic back pain by revealing specific molecular targets for future treatments, moving beyond current methods that merely manage symptoms.
Editor’s Note: This article was edited with a custom prompt for Claude Sonnet 4, an AI assistant created by Anthropic. The AI optimized the article for SEO discoverability, improved clarity, structure and readability while preserving the original reporting and factual content. All information and viewpoints remain those of the author and publication. This article was edited and fact-checked by college staff before being published. This disclosure is part of our commitment to transparency in our editorial process. Last edited: 09/09/2025.
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