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Published on: December 10, 2010
A bFGF/TCP-composite inhibits bone formation in a sheep model
Uwe Maus1, Stefan Andereya, Jörg A K Ohnsorge
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany. umaus@ukaachen.de
Summary
Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) combined with tricalcium phosphate (TCP) cement did not enhance bone formation in sheep bone defects. The addition of bFGF significantly inhibited new bone ingrowth, suggesting this composite is not clinically promising.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Research
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is known to stimulate bone growth.
- Its osteostimulative effects are dose-dependent and influenced by carrier release kinetics.
- Tricalcium phosphate (TCP) cement is a potential bone void filler.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a composite material combining bFGF with a novel in situ setting TCP cement for bone regeneration.
- To determine the impact of bFGF incorporation on bone ingrowth and cement resorption in a sheep model.
Main Methods:
- A critical-sized bone defect was created in ovine femoral epiphyses.
- Defects were filled with TCP cement, TCP with bFGF (200 microg/cm(3)), autologous bone graft, or left empty.
- Bone healing was assessed after 3 months using microradiography, histology, and histomorphometry.
Main Results:
- TCP cement, with or without bFGF, achieved good bone-cement contact.
- Histomorphometric analysis revealed that bFGF significantly inhibited bone ingrowth into the TCP cement.
- Cement resorption rates were not affected by the presence of bFGF.
Conclusions:
- The combination of bFGF with TCP cement did not promote bone regeneration in this ovine model.
- The observed inhibition of bone ingrowth by bFGF warrants further investigation.
- The clinical application of this bFGF/TCP composite for bone repair is not currently recommended.
