The Use of Sequential VEGF- and BMP2-Releasing Biodegradable Scaffolds in Rabbit Mandibular Defects

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Volume 75, Issue 1
Author(s): Nilüfer Çakır-Özkan, Sinan Eğri, Esengül Bekar, B. Zuhal Altunkaynak, Yonca Betil Kabak, Elfide Gizem Kıvrak
PurposePromising developments have materialized in reconstructive surgical procedures with the applications of tissue engineering. In our study, we used tissue scaffolds fabricated from polylactic acid-polyethylene glycol (PLLA-PEG) copolymers to ensure different release rates of selective growth factors recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 [rhBMP-2] and vascular endothelial growth factor (rhVEGF165) in the repair of mandibular bone defects.Materials and MethodsIn our experimental study, 54 New Zealand rabbits were used. The rabbits were separated into 4 groups: group I (control group), PLLA-PEG scaffold only; group II, PLLA-PEG scaffold plus rhBMP-2 application; group III, PLLA-PEG scaffold plus VEGF165 application; and group IV, PLLA-PEG scaffold plus rhBMP-2 and VEGF165 applications. The rabbits were killed at 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively, and histopathologic and immunohistochemical assessments were performed.ResultsThe greatest bone volume was observed in rhBMP-2–containing groups, the greatest vessel volume was observed in VEGF165-containing groups; however, the scaffold containing rhBMP-2 and VEGF165 provided the best outcomes in conjunction with increased remodeling of the new bone.ConclusionsThe use of polymer tissue scaffolds that release rhVEGF165 and rhBMP-2 in coordination and mimic the natural healing process in the regeneration of especially complex tissues, such as bone, is a promising treatment alternative in the field of reconstructive surgery.



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