Since MUC1 may have an important role in disc aging and degeneration by acting as a regulator in the hypoxic environment (helping disc cells to survive under hypoxic conditions by stabilization and by activation of HIF-1α as previously recognized in pancreatic cancer cells), we look forward to future studies on the role of MUC1 in disc aging and degeneration. This evidence concerns the gene MUC1 and familial pancreatic carcinoma.