Controlled release of BMP-2 from a sintered polymer scaffold enhances bone repair in a mouse calvarial defect model

Sustained and controlled delivery of growth factors, such as bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2), from polymer scaffolds has excellent potential for enhancing bone regeneration. The present study investigated the use of novel sintered polymer scaffolds prepared using temperature-sensitive PLGA/PEG particles. Growth factors can be incorporated into these scaffolds by mixing the reconstituted growth factor with the particles prior to sintering. The ability of the PLGA/PEG scaffolds to deliver BMP-2 in a controlled and sustained manner was assessed and the osteogenic potential of these scaffolds was determined in a mouse calvarial defect model. BMP-2 was released from the scaffolds in vitro over 3 weeks. On average, ca. 70% of the BMP-2 loaded into the scaffolds was released by the end of this time period. The released BMP-2 was shown to be active and to induce osteogenesis when used in a cell culture assay. A substantial increase in new bone volume of 55% was observed in a mouse calvarial defect model for BMP-2-loaded PLGA/PEG scaffolds compared to empty defect controls. An increase in new bone volume of 31% was observed for PLGA/PEG scaffolds without BMP-2, compared to empty defect controls. These results demonstrate the potential of novel PLGA/PEG scaffolds for sustained BMP-2 delivery for bone-regeneration applications.