Cellular senescence is increasingly recognised as a significant aetiological factor in IVDD, with evidence suggesting that the removal of senescent cells locally can decelerate the progression of IVDD.38–40 Recent research indicates that m6A modifications play roles in multiple musculoskeletal disorders.41–43 Our current study associates impaired autophagy during IVDD and ageing of NPCs with reduced ATG4a expression. This evidence concerns the gene ATG4A and musculoskeletal system disorder.