Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 Stimulates Periodontal Tissue Regeneration

Introduction: An ideal goal of periodontal therapy is to achieve the complete regeneration of periodontal tissue destroyed by the progression of periodontal diseases. The use of recombinant cytokines is one of the physiologically efficient procedures to stimulate periodontal tissue regeneration. Recently, the safety and efficacy of topical application of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) to regenerate 2-or 3-walled vertical bone defects was evaluated in Phase 2 multicenter clinical trials in Japan. The results revealed a significant difference in the percentage of increase in alveolar bone height at 36 weeks after administration between the placebo group and the 0.3% FGF-2 group. Case Presentation: Two cases of intraosseous bone defects, which were treated with a topical application of FGF-2, are presented. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of FGF-2-induced periodontal tissue regeneration. The flap operation was conducted in accordance with the modified Widman procedure, and recombinant human FGF-2 with 3% hydroxypropylcellulose was used as a vehicle and topically applied to the vertical bone defects. A standardized dental radiograph revealed a considerable increase in radiopacity at the bone defects 36 weeks after administration; also, no serious adverse events attributable to the drug were identified in either case. Conclusion: These results strongly suggest that topical application of 0.3% FGF-2 can be efficacious in an increase in the height of alveolar bone that has been destroyed by periodontitis.