Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 loaded porous beta-tricalcium phosphate microsphere-hyaluronic acid composites promoted osseointegration around titanium implants

Abstract

We fabricated two beta-tricalcium phosphates (beta-TCP) microsphere-hyaluronic acid composites and evaluate their efficacy as recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) carriers when combined with titanium implants in rabbit tibial diaphysis. After 4 weeks, the new bone formation was observed with plain radiographs and histology and was analyzed via micro-CT. Micro-CT analyses results showed the composites with hydrogel and BMP had a significantly higher bone to implant contact ratios and new bone formation than the other groups did. Our results indicated that rhBMP-2 loaded beta-TCP/hydrogel composites could significantly elevate osteogenesis and osseointegration of the titanium implants in rabbit tibia medullary space. [GRAPHICS] .