Swimming ameliorates intervertebral disc degeneration accompanied by Rpl23a downregulation and changes in its immune-inflammatory pathway - Summary - MDSpire

Swimming ameliorates intervertebral disc degeneration accompanied by Rpl23a downregulation and changes in its immune-inflammatory pathway

  • By

  • Yong Ji

  • Haixin Ma

  • Rong Tan

  • Xin Sha

  • Xin Li

  • June 2, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To investigate the role of Rpl23a in regulating immune interactions in intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and evaluate the impact of exercise intervention on this signaling axis.

Key Findings:
  • Rpl23a was significantly upregulated in degenerated intervertebral discs, primarily in fibroblasts.
  • Crosstalk between Rpl23a-positive fibroblasts, macrophages, and T lymphocytes contributed to a pro-inflammatory microenvironment.
  • Rpl23a overexpression led to increased secretion of TNF-α and IL-1β, activated NF-κB signaling, and induced cell apoptosis and matrix catabolism.
  • Swimming reduced Rpl23a expression, decreased immune cell infiltration, and inhibited NF-κB activation in the rat model.
Interpretation:

Rpl23a is associated with NF-κB signaling activation and the formation of a pathological immune microenvironment in IVDD.

Limitations:
  • The study primarily focused on a rat model, which may not fully replicate human IVDD.
  • Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of swimming on IVDD and Rpl23a.
Conclusion:

Rpl23a may mediate the protective effects of exercise on intervertebral discs.

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