Enhanced Induction of Engineered Bone with Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor

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Abstract
This study examined the effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), a potent angiogenic protein and mitogen for osteoblast proliferation, to enhance the production of engineered bone tissue from periosteum and polyglycolic acid. Bovine periosteum was placed onto polyglycolic acid and implanted with bFGF (experimental group) or without bFGF (control group) into athymic mice. After 2 weeks, the mean weight of the implants with bFGF was significantly greater than the group without bFGF, and the microvessel density was significantly greater with bFGF than without bFGF. Histology revealed presence of calcified cartilage tissue in all implants with bFGF and absence of a calcified matrix in all implants without bFGF. After 4 weeks, early organized trabecular bone matrix was seen in the implants with bFGF, while calcified cartilage tissue was present in the implants without bFGF. After 8 weeks, a well-organized trabecular bone matrix was present in the implants with bFGF. Early organized trabecular bone matrix was observed in the implants without bFGF. A greater mean weight, a homogeneous presence of calcified matrix, and greater microvessel density of implants with bFGF after 2 weeks indicate earlier induction of bone tissue from bFGF. We conclude that bFGF improved the maturation process of bone tissue generated from periosteum and polyglycolic acid.