Osteoinductively Functionalized 3D-Printed Scaffold for Vertical Bone Augmentation in Beagle Dogs

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Vertical alveolar bone augmentation is crucial for dental implant success.
• Current methods face limitations in achieving predictable bone regeneration.
• 3D-printed scaffolds offer customizable solutions for bone defects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a 3D-printed scaffold functionalized with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2)-incorporated biomimetic calcium phosphate particles (BMP-2-inc. BpNcCaP)/hyaluronic acid (HA) composite gel.
• To assess its performance in vertical bone augmentation in a beagle dog model.

Main Methods:

• Critical-size vertical bone defects were surgically created in beagle dogs.
• Defects were treated with either no material (Control), a 3D scaffold, or the BMP-2-inc. BpNcCaP/HA-functionalized 3D scaffold.
• Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histomorphometric analyses were performed after six weeks.

Main Results:

• The BMP-2-inc. BpNcCaP/HA-functionalized 3D scaffold group showed significantly increased bone volume, bone volume fraction, and bone mineral density compared to control and non-functionalized scaffold groups.
• Enhanced trabecular structure, including higher trabecular number and thickness, was observed.
• The functionalized scaffold exhibited a higher bone-to-scaffold contact percentage and greater newly formed bone area within pores.

Conclusions:

• The BMP-2-inc. BpNcCaP/HA-functionalized 3D scaffold significantly enhanced vertical alveolar bone augmentation.
• This biomimetic, osteoinductive scaffold demonstrates considerable potential for clinical application in dentistry.