Identifying biomarkers for intervertebral disc degeneration and pain

Development of New Diagnostic, Prognostic and Therapeutic Strategies in the Field of Degenerative Disc Disease: Identification of Biomarkers and Molecular Targets Involved in Discogenic Pain and Neuroinflammation

Observational Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico · NCT06349226

This study is trying to find new ways to treat low back pain by looking at how certain substances in the body affect disc degeneration.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment160 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorFondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Academic / other
Locations1 site (Milan)
Trial IDNCT06349226 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind intervertebral disc degeneration and associated pain, which affects a significant portion of the population. It aims to investigate the role of sphingolipid metabolism and its impact on inflammation and degeneration of the intervertebral discs. By isolating cells from disc tissue and examining biomarkers, the study seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets for treating discogenic pain. The findings could lead to improved management strategies for patients suffering from low back pain due to disc degeneration.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients experiencing disc degeneration due to conditions such as spondylolisthesis or herniated intervertebral discs.

Not a fit: Patients with spinal infections will not benefit from this study as they are excluded from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to the development of new therapies that effectively alleviate discogenic pain and improve patient quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored similar mechanisms in disc degeneration, but this specific focus on sphingolipid metabolism is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with disc degeneration for spondylolisthesis, herniated intervertebral disc, and other causes of disc degeneration

Exclusion Criteria:

* Spinal infection

Where this trial is running

Milan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Intervertebral Disc DegenerationDiscogenic PainDiscogenic Diseaseintervertebral disc degenerationdiscogenic painbiomarkersneuroinflammationiperinnervation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.