In SW1353 chondrocyte-derived cells, catabolic genes such as IL-6, BMP-2, MMP13 and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 only respond to IL-1, with almost no response to TNFα.41, 42 Such results are intriguing because we have shown that IL-1β plays a more prominent role in driving disc degeneration than TNFα.43, 44 Therefore, anti-inflammatory drugs that selectively target IL-1 are more likely to bring therapeutic benefits. This evidence concerns the gene IL6 and intervertebral disk degenerative disorder.