Kinston Researcher Investigates Breakthrough Therapies for Chronic Back Pain
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KINSTON, N.C. - ncarol.com -- Charles Brandon Taylor, a biomedical researcher and Kinston native, is leading a cutting-edge study in collaboration with Wake Forest University School of Medicine exploring how regenerative medicine can reverse the effects of degenerative disc disease (DDD).

Taylor's research, detailed in a major study titled "The Regeneration of Degenerated Intervertebral Discs via Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials, and Gene or Cell-Based Therapies," investigates advanced approaches such as stem cells, engineered biomaterials, and targeted gene therapy to restore spinal disc structure and function. According to the World Health Organization, low back pain caused by conditions like DDD affects over 266 million people globally and remains one of the leading causes of disability and lost productivity worldwide.

"I wanted to work on something that directly impacts people in my community. Kinston, like many rural areas, sees high rates of back injuries and spinal degeneration, especially among those in physically demanding jobs like farming, manufacturing, and construction," Taylor said. "Our goal is to develop therapies that are effective, minimally invasive, and accessible to everyone, not just patients at large and major hospitals."

The Condition

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a common spinal condition in which the intervertebral discs (the soft, cushioning structures between the bones of the spine) gradually lose hydration, flexibility, and structural integrity. This breakdown can lead to reduced shock absorption, instability, and nerve irritation, often causing chronic back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Innovative Regenerative Approach

Taylor's study used a multiphase experimental design to replicate DDD in lab, computer, and animal models, and then test potential regenerative therapies. This included:

• In vitro experiments to simulate disc degeneration using mechanical overloading, nutrient deprivation, and inflammatory signals.
• Advanced biomaterial scaffolds, including hydrogels and 3D-printed disc structures, designed to mimic the natural environment of healthy spinal discs.
• Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapies sourced from bone marrow, adipose tissue, and cartilage endplates, preconditioned for survival in the low-oxygen disc environment.
• Gene therapy using plasmid and viral vectors to enhance regenerative gene activity and reduce inflammatory processes.
• Finite element computational modeling to predict how treatments affect nutrient flow, structural strength, and mechanical performance of the spine.

Key Research Findings

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Across multiple experiments, preliminary results indicate:

• An increase in spinal disc hydration and height following MSC-laden hydrogel treatments in animal models.
• Recovery of mechanical stiffness in discs treated with advanced biomaterial scaffolds.
• Significant reduction in inflammatory markers along with regrowth of essential proteins
• Regrowth of essential proteins

From Bench to Bedside

These findings suggest that regenerative medicine could offer an alternative to invasive surgeries like spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement, which can carry risks and high costs. Taylor's work also highlights the equity gap in spine care, with rural patients often lacking access to specialized surgical interventions.

Access to high-quality spine care is far from equal, with rural and marginalized communities facing significant barriers to diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. In many small towns and underserved areas, advanced imaging facilities, spine specialists, and surgical centers are scarce, forcing patients to travel long distances or go without care altogether. Financial constraints, limited insurance coverage, and transportation challenges further widen this gap, delaying treatment until conditions like degenerative disc disease become severe. Cultural and systemic inequities also play a role, as marginalized patients are less likely to be referred for advanced therapies and more likely to receive only short-term pain management.

"We envision a future where these regenerative therapies could be given in outpatient clinics or even primary care settings," Taylor explained. "That would be a game-changer for patients who can't easily travel to big city hospitals."

Community and Global Relevance

While the study has global implications, Taylor stresses its local importance. The largest industries in Kinston require physically demanding work which often accelerates spinal wear and tear. By focusing on less invasive, longer-lasting treatments, this research aims to improve quality of life for those most affected.

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"Every disc and every patient is different. Our goal is to move away from one-size-fits-all treatments and develop personalized regenerative strategies tailored to the patient's biology and stage of degeneration. Kinston shaped who I am. I want to make sure the innovations we develop don't just serve big cities and major hospitals, but they should reach communities like ours too," Taylor said.

Next Steps

The study lays the groundwork for future human clinical trials aimed at translating these promising laboratory and animal model results into real-world patient care. These trials will not only measure structural improvements through advanced imaging but also track patient-reported outcomes such as pain relief, mobility, and quality of life over extended follow-up periods.

Longer-term research will focus on evaluating the durability of regenerative effects, ensuring that restored disc hydration, structural integrity, and pain reduction are maintained for years, not just months. This includes refining biomaterial designs for larger human discs, optimizing stem cell sourcing and preconditioning techniques, and improving gene delivery methods to achieve sustained therapeutic benefits.

About the Researcher:

Charles Brandon Taylor is a graduate of the Biomedical Sciences program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. His work bridges regenerative medicine, orthopedic surgery, and biotechnology with a focus on expanding access to advanced care in underserved communities. Originally from Kinston, NC, Taylor has trained in both New York City and Winston-Salem and remains dedicated to applying his scientific expertise to the benefit of his hometown and other marginalized communities.