These are represented by variants in or near CHST3/SPOCK2 and SOX512,13, genes that are involved in regulation of chondrogenesis and the nervous system15,16, and an intergenic signal between GSDMC and CCDC26 that associates with both self-reported back pain12,13 and lumbar IDD requiring surgery14. This evidence concerns the gene CHST3 and intervertebral disk degenerative disorder.