[Fibulin-3 Regulates Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases 3 to Inhibit Senescence in Intervertebral Disc Nucleus Pulposus Cells].

This study demonstrates that fibulin-3 plays a crucial role in inhibiting the senescence of intervertebral disc NPCs by regulating TIMP-3. The specific mechanisms involved are as follows, fibulin-3 upregulates <i>TIMP-3</i> expression, inhibits matrix metalloproteinase activity, and reduces extracellular matrix degradation, thereby promoting extracellular matrix synthesis. Additionally, fibulin-3 inhibits NPCs senescence by reducing apoptosis and promoting cell proliferation. Therefore, fibulin-3 and TIMP-3 have potential therapeutic significance in maintaining intervertebral disc health and delaying degeneration.