Use of transforming growth factor-β loaded onto β-tricalcium phosphate scaffold in a bone regeneration rat calvaria model.

Background: Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β ) enhances mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation into osteoblasts.

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess whether TGF-β loaded onto β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) synthetic scaffold enhances bone regeneration in a rat calvaria model. The release kinetics of TGF-β from β-TCP scaffold was evaluated in vitro.

Materials And Methods: TGF-β in various concentrations (1-40 ng/mL) was loaded onto the β-TCP scaffold, and release kinetics was monitored by ELISA. The effect of TGF-β on the proliferation of MSCs was assessed using AlamarBlue, and MSC differentiation was evaluated by Alizarin Red quantification assay.Bone augmentation following transplantation of TGF-β loaded onto β-TCP in a rat calvaria model was evaluated in vivo.

Results: Greater TGF-β release from the 40 ng/mL concentration was found. A suppressive effect of TGF-β on the MSCs proliferation was observed with maximum inhibition obtained with 40 ng/mL compared to the control group (P = .028). A positive effect on MSCs osteogenic differentiation was found.Bone height and bone area fraction in vivo were similar with or without TGF-β ; however, blood vessel density and degradation of the scaffold were significantly higher in the TGF-β group.

Conclusion: TGF-β adsorbed to β-TCP stimulated angiogenesis and scaffold degradation that may enhance bone formation.