The chitosan collagen salvianolic membrane mitigates intervertebral disc degeneration through suppression of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Abstract

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), a natural aging process, leads to intervertebral disc pain, with lumbar resection providing pain relief but potential postoperative complications affecting outcomes. The chitosan-collagen-salvianolic (CCS) membrane has shown promise in reducing scar formation after lumbar resection, though the mechanisms remain unclear. A lumbar laminectomy model was used, with materials applied to the surgical site. Tissue samples were collected at 4 and 8 wk post-surgery for histological evaluation to assess pathological changes and apoptosis. Western blot analysis examined protein expression in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in scar tissue. Rabbit vascular adventitia fibroblast (VAF) cells were isolated, and a Wnt3a overexpression vector was created. Various composite membrane materials and pathway inhibitors were tested, with assessments of cell invasion, apoptosis, viability, cytokine levels, and protein expression. Results showed that lumbar laminectomy activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The CCS membrane facilitated healing by inhibiting this pathway. It enhanced VAF cell activity, reduced apoptosis, and suppressed Wnt3a pathway activity. Additionally, it protected cells from Wnt3a overexpression-induced damage while maintaining normal function. In conclusion, the CCS composite membrane promoted bone tissue repair after lumbar laminectomy by inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation and preserving extracellular matrix fibroblast function.