Age related changes in IVD differentiation markers.

<p>A shows the normal histological structure of the IVD at four days (P4), one year, and two years of age. B–D show the distribution (by immunofluorescence) and quantities (by fluorescent intensity measurements from three independent experiments, each carried out in duplicate) of CHSO4 (B), aggrecan (ACAN, C) and collagen 1 (COl1A1, D) at P4 and one year. E shows mRNA levels, assayed by qPCR of IVD markers at P4 (blue bars) and one year of age (red bars). Data are from three independent experiments, each carried out in triplicate. In A, B and C scale bar = 200 µm, and in D scale bar = 50 µm. Nuclei are stained blue with POPO3-iodide. NP = nucleus pulposus, AF = annulus fibrosus, EP = end plate. (* p≤0.05, ** p≤0.01, *** p≤0.001, NS = not significant).