Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics characterisation of RSPO2+ nucleus pulposus cells reveals a WNT/FN1–CD44 degenerative axis and therapeutic targets in IVDD
This study identifies an RSPO2-associated NP state and a candidate WNT/FN1–CD44 programme linked to IVDD, and provides a testable basis for future WNT-directed intervention studies while recognising the limits of acute rat models and cross-species data.