An unusual method for treating back pain has been found

Scientists from McGill University have found that removing aging "zombie cells" from the body can eliminate the main cause of chronic lower back pain. The research results were published in the journal Science Advances.

Senescent cells, often called "zombie cells," accumulate in the spinal discs as tissues age and damage accumulates. They slow down the body's regenerative ability and also cause inflammation and pain.

Scientists hypothesized that the accumulation of aging cells is the root cause of back pain. To test this hypothesis, the research team administered two drugs to mice: the natural compound ortho-Vanillin and the cancer drug RG-7112. They were tested both together and separately.

Over eight weeks of treatment, the drugs "cleared" the rodents' spines of "zombie cells" and also slowed down (or even reversed) damage to the spinal discs. Each drug had a beneficial effect, but the greatest effect was achieved when they were used together.

According to the scientists, ortho-Vanillin was included in the study almost by chance. The authors of the work noted the anti-inflammatory properties of this natural compound and decided to check if it had a noticeable therapeutic effect.

In the future, scientists plan to improve the structure of ortho-Vanillin so that it stays in the body longer. The scientists also want to find out if it will be effective for humans. Researchers suggest that the combination of ortho-Vanillin with RG-7112 may treat other age-related diseases, such as arthritis or osteoporosis.