Hope for Chronic Back Pain Sufferers: Drugs target “Zombie Cells”
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MONTREAL — May 8, 2024 —
In Montreal, a groundbreaking study from McGill University offers a beacon of hope for those suffering from chronic low back pain. Researchers are targeting “zombie cells” to treat the root cause of spinal pain, which affects millions globally. New drugs administered to mice have eliminated these harmful cells,leading to reduced inflammation and damage reversal,opening new avenues for treating the debilitating condition. Further research is required.
Hope for Chronic Back Pain Sufferers: Drugs Target “Zombie Cells” in promising Study
April 27, 2025
The Back pain Epidemic
Millions worldwide grapple with chronic low back pain, a condition often managed with painkillers or surgery, which frequently fail to address the root cause. But now, a new approach is on the horizon. Researchers at McGill University have identified a potential breakthrough: targeting “zombie cells” to treat the underlying cause of chronic low back pain [[1]].
Did You Know?
Chronic back pain is defined as pain that lasts for six months or longer [[2]]. It’s a leading cause of disability worldwide.
Zombie Cells: The Culprits behind the Pain
The study focuses on senescent, or “zombie,” cells. these cells accumulate in spinal discs due to aging or damage. Unlike normal cells, they don’t die off; instead, they persist, causing inflammation and pain, and further damaging the spine.
Lisbet Haglund, a professor in the McGill surgery department and co-director of the orthopedic research laboratory at Montreal general Hospital, explains the significance of this discovery:
Our discoveries are exciting because they suggest that we could be able to treat back pain in a completely new way, removing the cells that cause the problem, not only by masking the pain.
Lisbet Haglund, McGill University
The Two-Drug Solution
Researchers explored a solution by administering two drugs orally to mice:
- O-vanillin: A natural compound.
- RG-7112: An anticancer drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The results were promising. The drugs successfully eliminated zombie cells from the spine, reducing both pain and inflammation. Furthermore, the treatment slowed down or even reversed damage to the spinal discs after just eight weeks.
The impact was even greater when the two drugs were administered together.
Oral Treatment Reaching Spinal Discs
One of the most surprising findings was the effectiveness of oral administration.
We were surprised that an oral treatment could reach spinal records, which are difficult to reach and represent an important obstacle in the treatment of back pain.
Lisbet Haglund, McGill University
This opens new avenues for treatment, potentially avoiding more invasive procedures.
Pro Tip: Maintaining Spinal Health
While research continues, maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and engaging in regular exercise can definitely help support spinal health and potentially reduce the risk of chronic back pain.
Implications and Future Research
this preclinical study offers a new outlook on treating chronic low back pain. By targeting zombie cells,researchers hope to develop therapies that address the underlying cause of the condition,rather than just masking the symptoms.
however, it’s important to note that this research is still in its early stages.Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in humans and to determine the long-term safety and effectiveness of these drugs.
FAQ: Chronic Back Pain and “Zombie Cells”
- What are “zombie cells”?
- they are senescent cells that accumulate in the spine, causing inflammation and damage.
- How do these drugs work?
- They eliminate zombie cells from the spine, reducing pain and inflammation.
- Are these drugs available now?
- No, they are still in the preclinical stage and require further research.
- Can anti-inflammatory drugs led to chronic pain?
- Some research suggests blocking inflammation may increase the chances of developing chronic pain [[3]].
