From disease model to therapeutic insight: An engineered hydrogel reveals the role of matrix viscous dissipation in intervertebral disc degeneration

Key Points

• Findings indicate that matrix viscous dissipation significantly affects intervertebral disc degeneration over time.
• Key evidence shows that alterations in hydrogel structure can influence the mechanical behavior of the disc.
• The study employs engineered hydrogels to simulate disc conditions and assess biomechanical responses.
• These insights could pave the way for new treatments targeting disc degeneration, though further clinical evaluation is warranted.