Bone augmentation using a highly porous PLGA/β-TCP scaffold containing fibroblast growth factor-2

Background and ObjectiveBeta-tricalcium phosphate (-TCP), a bio-absorbable ceramic, facilitates bone conductivity. We constructed a highly porous three-dimensional scaffold, using -TCP, for bone tissue engineering and coated it with co-poly lactic acid/glycolic acid (PLGA) to improve the mechanical strength and biological performance. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of implantation of the PLGA/-TCP scaffold loaded with fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) on bone augmentation. Material and MethodsThe -TCP scaffold was fabricated by the replica method using polyurethane foam, then coated with PLGA. The PLGA/-TCP scaffold was characterized by scanning electron miscroscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction, compressive testing, cell culture and a subcutaneous implant test. Subsequently, a bone-forming test was performed using 52 rats. The -TCP scaffold, PLGA-coated scaffold, and -TCP and PLGA-coated scaffolds loaded with FGF-2, were implanted into rat cranial bone. Histological observations were made at 10 and 35d postsurgery. ResultsSEM and TEM observations showed a thin PLGA layer on the -TCP particles after coating. High porosity (> 90%) of the scaffold was exhibited after PLGA coating, and the compressive strength of the PLGA/-TCP scaffold was six-fold greater than that of the noncoated scaffold. Good biocompatibility of the PLGA/-TCP scaffold was found in the culture and implant tests. Histological samples obtained following implantation of PLGA/-TCP scaffold loaded with FGF-2 showed significant bone augmentation. ConclusionThe PLGA coating improved the mechanical strength of -TCP scaffolds while maintaining high porosity and tissue compatibility. PLGA/-TCP scaffolds, in combination with FGF-2, are bioeffective for bone augmentation.