eCM (Eur Cell Mater / e Cells & Materials) eCM Open Access Scientific Journal
 ISSN:1473-2262         NLM:100973416 (link)         DOI:10.22203/eCM

2010   Volume No 19 – pages 252-261

Title: Heterotopic bone formation by nano-apatite containing poly(D,L-lactide) composites

Author: D Barbieri, AJS Renard, JD de Bruijn, H Yuan

Address: Xpand Biotechnology BV, 3723 MB Bilthoven, the Netherlands

E-mail: davide.barbieri at progentix.com

Key Words: Osteoinduction, nano-apatite, poly(D,L-lactide), graft substitute.

Publication date: June 5th 2010

Abstract: To render polymeric materials osteoinductive, nano-sized calcium phosphate apatite particles (CaP) were introduced into a low molecular weight poly(D,L-lactide). Homogenous composites were made with 10%, 20% and 40% by weight of apatite content while pure polylactide was used as control. Thereafter porous samples (pore size 300-400 µm, 60% porosity) were fabricated and sterilized. In vitro studies showed that calcium ions were released from the composites depending on the apatite content, while surface mineral deposition was observed only on the 40% CaP composites in simulated body fluid (SBF) within 14 days. After 12 weeks of intramuscular implantation in dogs, only the 40% CaP composite implant retained its shape and showed ectopic bone formation within the pores. In conclusion, adding a content of 40% apatite into poly(D,L-lactide) could lead to an osteoinductive material.  Future studies will focus on understanding this phenomenon of material-directed osteoinduction in order to develop a promising bone graft substitute.

Article download: Pages 252-261 (PDF file)
DOI: 10.22203/eCM.v019a24