Summary
Objective
To determine if baseline biomarkers are associated with longitudinal changes in the
worsening of disc space narrowing (DSN), vertebral osteophytes (OST), and low back
pain (LBP).
Design
Paired baseline (2003–2004) and follow-up (2006–2010) lumbar spine radiographs from
the Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project were graded for severity of DSN and OST.
LBP severity was self-reported. Concentrations of analytes (cytokines, proteoglycans,
and neuropeptides) were quantified by immunoassay. Pressure-pain threshold (PPT),
a marker of sensitivity to pressure pain, was measured with a standard dolorimeter.
Binary logistic regression models were used to estimate odd ratios (OR) and 95% confidence
intervals (CI) of biomarker levels with DSN, OST, or LBP. Interactions were tested
between biomarker levels and the number of affected lumbar spine levels or LBP.
Results
We included participants (n = 723) with biospecimens, PPT, and paired lumbar spine radiographic data. Baseline
Lumican, a proteoglycan reflective of extracellular matrix changes, was associated
with longitudinal changes in DSN worsening (OR = 3.19 [95% CI 1.22, 8.01]). Baseline
brain-derived neuropathic factor, a neuropeptide, (OR = 1.80 [95% CI 1.03, 3.16])
was associated with longitudinal changes in OST worsening, which may reflect osteoclast
genesis. Baseline hyaluronic acid (OR = 1.31 [95% CI 1.01, 1.71]), indicative of systemic
inflammation, and PPT (OR = 1.56 [95% CI 1.02, 2.31]) were associated with longitudinal
increases in LBP severity.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that baseline biomarkers are associated with longitudinal changes
occurring in structures of the lumbar spine (DSN vs OST). Markers of inflammation
and perceived pressure pain sensitivity were associated with longitudinal worsening
of LBP.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: February 18, 2023
Accepted:
February 12,
2023
Received:
July 16,
2022
Publication stage
In Press Journal Pre-ProofIdentification
Copyright
© 2023 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
