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Biological Compatibility Profile on Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration
Published on: November 16, 2018
Poly(glycerol sebacate) elastomer: a novel material for mechanically loaded bone regeneration
Samer Helal Zaky1, Kee-Won Lee, Jin Gao
11 Department of Oral Biology, Center for Craniofacial Regeneration, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Tissue Engineering. Part A
|September 12, 2013
Summary
This study shows that a flexible polymer, poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS), can fully regenerate bone defects in rabbits. Lower stiffness scaffolds promote bone healing, challenging current selection criteria for bone engineering.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Current bone engineering scaffolds prioritize mechanical similarity to mature bone.
- This approach may limit the potential for endogenous bone regeneration.
- Novel materials are needed to overcome these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) as a scaffold for critical-size bone defect regeneration.
- To investigate the influence of PGS mechanical properties on osteogenesis and bone maturation.
- To challenge the conventional selection criteria for bone scaffold materials.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a rabbit ulna critical-size defect model.
- Tested PGS alone, PGS with hydroxyapatite, and PGS with bone marrow stromal cells.
- Assessed regenerated bone using histology, microcomputed tomography, and mechanical testing at 8 weeks.
Main Results:
- Full regeneration of the critical-size bone defect was achieved using PGS.
- Histological and microcomputed tomography analyses confirmed bone formation and maturation.
- Mechanical testing indicated successful load transfer, supporting osteogenesis.
Conclusions:
- The relatively lower stiffness of PGS elastomer creates a favorable environment for osteogenesis and bone healing.
- PGS demonstrates significant potential as an osteoconductive material for regenerating bony defects.
- These findings necessitate a re-evaluation of selection criteria for bone scaffold development.

