Nucleus pulposus of intervertebral disc (NP)

The nucleus pulposus is the gelatinous inner core of the intervertebral disc, surrounded by the annulus fibrosus and flanked by cartilage endplates[1][6][10]. It is composed mainly of water, proteoglycans (notably aggrecan), and collagen type II[3][6][9]. Its primary function is to absorb and distribute forces—to act as a shock absorber and allow motion in the vertebral column[4][7]. With aging and degeneration, the NP loses water and proteoglycan content, altering its mechanical properties and contributing to spine disorders such as degenerative disc disease and back pain[2][3][8]. The NP is not a single molecule or gene, but a complex, distinct tissue region with a specialized cell population, relevant primarily in anatomical, orthopedic, and tissue engineering contexts rather than traditional drug targeting[1][10].

Other names

NPintervertebral disc nucleusnucleus pulposus

Not applicable (not a molecular target for drugs)