Although we are not able to study the direct effect of Phlpp1 depletion on NP cells, the positive correlation of Phlpp1 with IVD degeneration and apoptosis strongly suggests a role of Phlpp1 in human NP and AF during IDD, thus future research is warranted to verify the protective role of Phlpp1 deficiency in human NP cell culture studies. This evidence concerns the gene PHLPP1 and atrial fibrillation.