Influence of fixed charge density magnitude and distribution on the intervertebral disc: applications of a poroelastic and chemical electric (PEACE) model

A 3-dimensional formulation for a poroelastic and chemical electric (PEACE) model is presented and applied to an intervertebral disc slice in a 1-dimensional validation problem and a 2-dimensional plane stress problem. The model was used to investigate the influence of fixed charge density magnitude and distribution on this slice of disc material. Results indicated that the mechanical, chemical, and electrical behaviors were all strongly influenced by the amount as well as the distribution of fixed charges in the matrix. Without any other changes in material properties, alterations in the fixed charge density (proteoglycan content) from a healthy to a degenerated distribution will cause an increase in solid matrix stresses and can affect whether the tissue imbibes or exudes fluid under different loading conditions. Disc tissue with a degenerated fixed charge density distribution exhibited greater solid matrix stresses and decreased streaming potential, all of which have implications for disc nutrition, disc biomechanics, and tissue remodeling. It was also seen that application of an electrical potential across the disc can induce fluid transport.