Which statement about the nucleus pulposus is correct?

Which statement about the nucleus pulposus is correct?

• A. A central nucleus pulposus that is gelatinous
• B. A central gelatinous substance in the nucleus
• C. A ring formed by bone tissue
• D. Nerve tissue within the disc

Answer: (A)

The nucleus pulposus is the central, gel-like core of the intervertebral disc. Its gelatinous nature comes from high water and proteoglycan content, which lets it deform under load and help distribute pressure across the disc. It sits at the center, surrounded by the tougher annulus fibrosus, and is not bone or nerve tissue. With aging or degeneration, it can lose water and become less gelatinous, contributing to disc problems. So describing it as a central gelatinous region best captures its true nature.

The nucleus pulposus is the central, gel-like core of the intervertebral disc. Its gelatinous nature comes from high water and proteoglycan content, which lets it deform under load and help distribute pressure across the disc. It sits at the center, surrounded by the tougher annulus fibrosus, and is not bone or nerve tissue. With aging or degeneration, it can lose water and become less gelatinous, contributing to disc problems. So describing it as a central gelatinous region best captures its true nature.