Genetics of lumbar disk degeneration: technology, study designs, and risk factors

Orthop Clin North Am. 2011 Oct;42(4):479-86, vii. doi: 10.1016/j.ocl.2011.07.011.

Abstract

Lumbar disk degeneration (LDD) is a common musculoskeletal condition. Genetic risk factors have been suggested to play a major role in its cause. This article reviews the main research strategies that have been used to study the genetics of LDD, and the genes that thus far have been identified to influence susceptibility to LDD. With the rapid progress in genomic technologies, further advances in the genetics of LDD are expected in the next few years.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / epidemiology*
  • Genetic Testing
  • Genomics*
  • Humans
  • Intervertebral Disc Degeneration / genetics*
  • Intervertebral Disc Degeneration / physiopathology
  • Low Back Pain / genetics*
  • Low Back Pain / physiopathology
  • Lumbar Vertebrae*
  • Male
  • Prognosis
  • Risk Factors
  • Severity of Illness Index