This downregulation is a critical factor in the progression of OPLL in the sense that, after the reduction in vimentin following mechanical stress, there is an increase in the expression of osteogenic markers such as OCN, ALP, and COL I, suggesting that the mechanical stress in OPLL fibroblasts might trigger a shift toward osteogenesis, thereby contributing to the ossification process that characterizes OPLL. The gene discussed is VIM; the disease is ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the spine.