A particulate composition for stimulating nucleus pulposus regeneration has a particulate composition made of vertebral end-plates having an osseous component wherein the composition is milled, ground or particulized into particles from 10 to 1000 microns in size. At least a part of the composition can be non-demineralized or demineralized or a mixture of demineralized and non-demineralized particles from the vertebral end-plates. Preferably, the non-demineralized part is not subjected to harsh chemical treating. To possibly enhance the release of growth factors and other similar substances from the osseous layer of the end-plate, the material may be treated with hydrochloric acid, ethylene diamine or other demineralizing agents or regimens.