Osteogenesis Capacity of a Novel BMP/ Α-Tcp Bioactive Composite Bone Cement

To improve the osteogenesis ability of a-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) bone cement, a novel BMP/ α-TCP composite bone cement was prepared. By measuring the setting time and compressive strength, the hydration characteristic of bone cement was evaluated. Animal experiments including histological observation, radiographic investigation as well as digital image analyses reveal the difference of osteogenesis ability among BMP,a-TCP bone cement and BMP/α-TCP composite bone cement. Results show that α-TCP bone cement possesses excellent hydration and setting properties as well as high mechanical property. Comparison experiments show that BMP/ α-TCP composite bone cement has a stronger osteogenesis ability. The gross observation of the implant site does not exhibit any inflammation or necrosis. Histological analyses reveal that the material has good osteointegration with host bone, and new bone formation is detected within the materials, which are degrading. Strong osteogenesis ability of the composite is due to not only the excellent osteoconductive potential but also the osteoinductive potential contributed by active BMP releasing and the material degradation. Large skull defect could be well-healed by filling BMP/α-TCP composite bone cement. This novel material proves itself to be an absorbable and bioactive bone cement with an osteogenesis ability.