Intervertebral Disc

The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a cartilogenous structure that lays between the adjacent vertebrae and allows transferring loads and partial movement of the spine. Notochord gives rise to the central nucleus pulposus (NP) compartment of the IVD. NP is rich in aggrecan and hyaluronan. Sclerotome gives rise to the annulus fibrosus (AF) compartment of the IVD which surrounds the NP. The outer fraction of AF is rich in Collagen I, whether the inner is rich in Collagen II and proteoglycans. In adult, IVD is avascular.