In Vitro Model for Cigarette Smoke-Induced Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Overview

Low back pain affects 80% of individuals over 50 and is increasingly prevalent among younger adults aged 18–29. It is strongly associated with lumbar intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, a condition with no existing cure. Cigarette smoking, practiced by 11.6% of the U.S. population, is a major risk factor, yet the mechanisms underlying smoking -induced IVD degeneration remain poorly understood. To address this gap, this study established an in vitro IVD organ culture system to investigate the effects of c igarette smoke extract (CSE) on disc cell function and assess the protective potential of the antioxidant N -acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC). The hypothesis was that CSE - induced oxidative stress drives IVD cell damage, with NAC mitigating these effects by reducing oxidative stress, restoring cell function, and providing region-specific protection. A syringe-based smoking apparatus was adapted to generate CSE, with optical density and nitrite content analysis confirming its quality. Organ cell viability was validated through fluorescent staining. Exposure to 10% CSE increased oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species levels), calcification (alkaline phosphatase activity), and apoptosis (caspase-3 activation), with the greatest damage observed in cartilage endplate (CE P), the disc -bone interface. NAC treatment significantly reduced these effects, preserving cell function. These findings establish oxidative stress as a primary mechanism of CSE-induced IVD degeneration and highlight the CEP as a critical target for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. By demonstrating NAC’s potential in mitigating CSE -induced damage, this study lays the foundation for future research, including animal models and clinical trials, to develop pharmacological strategies to preserve disc integrity and function. Southwest Parks: Assessing How Urban Green Spaces Affect Youth Well-being Sofia Peinado Harmony Science Academy, El Paso, TX This project examines how access to urban green spaces affects the health and well -being of youth aged 5-16. The goal is to determine if these spaces help reduce stress, encourage physical activity, and improve social interactions. Participants were divide d into two groups: those with regular access to green spaces and those without. Data was collected through surveys measuring stress and happiness levels and direct observations of physical activity and social behaviors in green and non -green areas. Prelimi nary findings show that youth with access to green spaces report lower stress levels, higher happiness scores, and more frequent social interactions. They also engage in more physical activities during observations compared to those without access. These results confirm that green spaces contribute positively to both mental and physical health. The study concludes that urban green spaces are essential for supporting the well -being of children and teenagers. The results can guide policymakers to prioritize a dding parks and recreational areas, especially in underserved communities. Expanding access to these spaces could help reduce health disparities and create healthier environments for children. Future research could explore how specific green space features , like playgrounds or sports fields, enhance benefits or assess the long-term impact on youth development. This study underscores the importance of integrating nature into urban planning to support the health and happiness of younger populations.