Region-dependent expression and function of integrin α5β1 in protecting against disc degeneration via autophagy promotion: an ex vivo organ culture model under dynamic mechanical loading

The autophagy-apoptosis balance plays a critical regulatory role in IVDD progression, with integrin α5β1 serving as a crucial upstream mechanosensor that may exert its protective function through modulating the FAK/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. The region-specific distribution of integrin subtypes determines the specificity of mechanotransduction across different disc areas. Targeting the integrin-autophagy axis and its associated signaling pathways may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for mitigating mechanically induced IVDD.