Velutin Inhibits IL-1β-Induced Nucleus Pulposus Inflammatory and Extracellular Matrix Degradation Attenuating Mouse Intervertebral Disc Degeneration via the NF-κB and MAPK Pathways.

Intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD) usually causes lower back pain (LBP). Mechanical stress, trauma, aseptic inflammation, infection, and genetic susceptibility can accelerate the development of IVDD. Reportedly, proinflammatory cytokines and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation play significant roles in IVDD progression. Therefore, anti-inflammatory treatments and ECM inhibition can potentially delay the progression of IVDD. Velutin, a natural flavonoid, has the vigorous effects of suppressing inflammation. In this study, we researched the protective effects of velutin and the underlying mechanisms. Additionally, we evaluated its validity in a mouse IVDD model. The results indicated that velutin effectively suppressed interleukin-1β-induced inflammatory mediators. Moreover, our findings revealed the mechanisms of velutin's anti-inflammatory effects. Our results indicate that velutin is a potential therapeutic agent for IVDD.