Is expression of acid-sensing ion channel 3 ( ASIC3 ) in nucleus pulposus cells of the intervertebral disc regulated by p75NTR and ERK signaling?
Results of this study indicate that NGF serves to maintain the basal expression of ASIC3 through p75NTR and ERK signaling in discal cells. We suggest that ASIC3 is needed for adaptation of the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus cells to the acidic and hyperosmotic microenvironment of the intervertebral disc.
The results suggest that during hibernation the bear is able to produce a powerful proteolytic inhibitor which is released to the circulation and blocks muscle wasting associated with immobilization.