Enhanced cementum formation in experimentally induced cementum defects of the root surface with the application of recombinant basic fibroblast growth factor in collagen gel in vivo

Background: Therapies using biologically active, soluble factors such as growth factors or cytokines have been investigated for potential clinical use in regenerating lost periodontal tissue due to periodontitis. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF, FGF-2) is a multifunctional growth factor that has a variety of effects including induction of proliferation and morphogenesis in a wide range of cells and tissues including periodontal ligament tissue. Methods: In this study, we examined the effects of bFGF on the regeneration of cementum and periodontal ligament in experimentally induced partial defects in a beagle dog model. bFGF in a Collagen gel was applied to the defects and root surfaces, and the teeth were replanted. Results: Eight weeks post-surgery, formation of cementum on denuded dentin was enhanced by application of 0.1, 1, or 5 mug of bFGF in a Collagen gel compared to Collagen gel containing vehicle. Histological analyses revealed that at 4 weeks post-surgery, random periodontal ligament fibers had bound to dentin, but were attached only to denuded dentin to which 0.1, 1, or 5 mug of bFGF in Collagen gel had been applied. At 8 weeks post-surgery, we observed the formation of dense fibers bound to alveolar bone and newly synthesized cementum in teeth treated with 1 mug of bFGF. Conclusion: These results suggest that basic fibroblast growth factor in a collagen gel is a suitable therapy for damaged periodontal ligament and could lead to readily achievable methods of treatment for periodontal disease.