Elastin-derived scaffolding associated or not with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) or hydroxyapatite (HA) in the repair process of metaphyseal bone defects.

Tissue engineering represents a promising alternative for reconstructive surgical procedures especially for the repair of bone defects that do not regenerate spontaneously. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of the elastin matrix (E24/50 and E96/37) incorporated with hydroxyapatite (HA) or morphogenetic protein (BMP) on the bone repair process in the distal metaphysis of rat femur. The groups were: control group (CG), hydrolyzed elastin matrix at 50°C/24h (E24/50), E24/50 + HA (E24/50/HA), E24/50 + BMP (E24/50/BMP), hydrolyzed elastin matrix at 37°C/96h (E96/37), E96/37 + HA (E96/37/HA), E96/37 + BMP (E96/37/BMP).

Suitability of the use of an elastin matrix combined with bone morphogenetic protein for the repair of cranial defects.

The use of biomaterials in medical and dental areas has become increasingly important due to the need to restore areas with bone loss or defects. This study analyzed the use of a new elastin polymer matrix combined with Bone Morphogenetic Protein for the repair of cranial defects in rats. Thirty rats were divided into five groups: control (C) defect without graft, E24 (defect filled with elastin matrix submitted to alkaline hydrolysis at 50°C for 24 h), E24/BMP (defect filled with elastin matrix treated at 50°C for 24 h plus BMP), E96 (defect filled with elastin matrix treated at 37°C for 96 h) and E96/BMP (defect filled with elastin matrix treated at 37°C for 96 h plus BMP).