Representative T2- and T1-weighted MRIs showing lumbar IVDs (L1/L2-L6/S1) from two years old wild-type and APOE-knockout rabbits.

<p>T2-weighted MRI (Fig 1a) displaying more advanced disc degeneration grade (DDG IV) in the APOE-knockout rabbit as compared to that (DDG II) in the wild-type rabbit. T1-weighted MRI (Fig 1b) illustrating the gradual enhancement of the intravenously administered contrast agent Gadobutrol [0.3 mmol/kg] in lumbar discs observed during a 120-minute period.