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Controlling bone morphogenetic protein diffusion and bone morphogenetic protein-stimulated bone growth using fibrin
Vikas V Patel1, Li Zhao, Pamela Wong
1The Spine Institute at St. John's Hospital, Santa Monica, CA, USA. vikas.patel@uchsc.edu
Spine
|May 12, 2006
Summary
Fibrin glue effectively limits the diffusion of bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP)-2, preventing excessive bone growth and protecting spinal nerves in animal studies. This innovation offers enhanced safety for spinal surgeries utilizing rhBMP-2.
Area of Science:
- Spinal Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP)-2 can cause problematic bone growth, leading to spinal canal encroachment and nerve compression.
- rhBMP-2 use in cervical spine surgery has been linked to severe swelling.
- Fibrin glue's potential to control rhBMP-2 diffusion has not been previously investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess fibrin glue's capacity to restrict rhBMP-2 diffusion.
- To determine if fibrin glue can shield spinal nerves from rhBMP-2-induced bone growth.
Main Methods:
- In vitro: rhBMP-2 soaked sponges were encapsulated in fibrin glue and incubated; rhBMP-2 levels in the surrounding solution were measured.
- In vivo: Rats underwent laminectomy with either rhBMP-2/sponges or fibrin glue followed by rhBMP-2/sponges.
- Post-surgery imaging (micro-CT) was performed after 8 weeks.
Main Results:
- Fibrin glue significantly limited rhBMP-2 diffusion in vitro.
- In vivo, fibrin glue successfully blocked bone formation and protected the spinal canal.
Conclusions:
- Fibrin glue serves as an effective barrier to rhBMP-2 diffusion.
- This controlled diffusion protects the spinal canal and nerve roots from adverse bone growth stimulated by rhBMP-2.
