Variations in mineral prestrain, nanostructure, and microarchitecture play a role in intervertebral disc loading

This study leverages multiscale X-ray imaging to reveal the local mechanical environment in the vertebral endplates and how their microarchitecture, mineral crystallite structure, and intrinsic prestrain mediate load transfer between intervertebral discs and vertebral bones in the spine. Compared with calcified cartilage, bony regions exhibited higher tensile and shear strains, narrower mineral crystallites, and greater compressive prestrain. These insights into structure-function relationships across scales offer valuable guidance for the design of biomimetic materials and next-generation orthopedic implants.