In conclusion, lumbar IVDs of APOE-knockout rabbits exhibited accelerated degeneration, lower enhancement of Gadobutrol, decreased concentration of glucose, diminished number of viable cells along with altered concentration levels the major matrix proteins aggrecan, collagen II and collagen I. IVD degeneration induced by APOE-knockout in rabbits could be characterized by structural deterioration that mimics the symptoms of advanced grade disc degeneration in humans. Here, ACAN is linked to intervertebral disk degenerative disorder.