Exploring the mechanisms underlying quercetin, a key component of Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix, against intervertebral disc degeneration

Our results demonstrate that QUE, a key active component of ABR, exerts protective effects on NP cells by alleviating IL-1β-induced oxidative stress, ECM degradation, inflammation, apoptosis, and senescence. These effects may be mediated through the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway, with <i>Nos3</i> serving as an indispensable downstream component. Our findings elucidate a novel mechanism of QUE and provide a pharmacological basis for the therapeutic application of ABR in IDD management.