In vitro testing and finite element modeling are used at the Laboratory of Biological Structures Mechanics to characterize the biomechanical response of the spinal tissues such as the intervertebral disc. The numerical models include the simulation of the effects of degenerative changes such as disc dehydration, height loss, and endplate sclerosis. The failure behaviour of the intervertebral disc, which is related to disc herniation and protrusion, is also being investigated with a multidisciplinary approach. Finite element models of vertebral bone, including damage and failure, are also developed. Experimental testing is conducted in close collaboration with Ulm University and Politecnico di Milano.