Bone Repair (bone + repair)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences


Selected Abstracts


Application of Histomorphometric Methods to the Study of Bone Repair,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 10 2005
Louis C Gerstenfeld
Abstract ABSTRACT: Standardized methods for the histomorphometric assessment of bone are essential features of most studies of metabolic bone diseases and their treatments. These methodologies were developed to assess coupled remodeling, focusing primarily on osteoblasts and osteoclasts, the anabolic and catabolic rates of these cells, and structural features of mature bone. Research studies on bone healing and the development of new therapeutic approaches for the enhancement of bone repair also require a comprehensive understanding of the basic cellular and tissue level mechanisms that underlie these processes. However, the histological methods developed for metabolic bone disease studies are not completely suitable for studies of bone repair because they are based on assumptions that there is little variation in tissue composition within a sample of bone and not generally designed to quantify other types of tissues, such as cartilage, that contribute to bone healing. These techniques also do not provide tissue-based structural measurements that are relatable to the specific types of biomechanical and radiographic structural assessments that are used to determine rates of bone healing. These deficiencies in current histological approaches therefore point to the need to establish standardized criteria for the histomorphometric assessments that are specifically adapted for the study of bone repair in models of fracture healing and bone regeneration. In this Perspective, we outline what we believe to be the specific structural, tissue. and cellular aspects that need to be addressed to establish these standardized criteria for the histomorphometric assessment of bone repair. We present the specific technical considerations that need to be addressed to appropriately sample repair tissues to obtain statistically meaningful results and suggest specific procedures and definitions of nomenclatures for the application of this technology to bone repair. Finally, we present how aspects of histomorphometric measurements of bone repair can be related to biomechanical and radiographic imaging properties that functionally define rates of bone healing, and thus, how these tools can be used to provide corroborating data. [source]


Bone repair in mandibular body osteotomy after using 2.0 miniplate system , histological and histometric analysis in dogs

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY, Issue 2 2008
Cássio Edvard Sverzut
Summary The objective of this study was to evaluate the bone repair along a mandibular body osteotomy after using a 2.0 miniplate system. Nine adult mongrel dogs were subjected to unilateral continuous defect through an osteotomy between the mandibular 3rd and 4th premolars. Two four-hole miniplates were placed in accordance with the Arbeitgeimeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen Manual. Miniplates adapted to the alveolar processes were fixed monocortically with 6.0-mm-length titanium alloy self-tapping screws, whereas miniplates placed near the mandible bases were fixed bicortically. At 2, 6 and 12 weeks, three dogs were sacrificed per period, and the osteotomy sites were removed, divided into three thirds (Tension Third, TT; Intermediary Third, IT; Compression Third, CT) and prepared for conventional and polarized light microscopy. At 6 weeks, while the CT repaired faster and showed bone union by woven bone formation, the TT and IT exhibited a ligament-like fibrous connective tissue inserted in, and connecting, newly formed woven bone overlying the parent lamellar bone edges. At 12 weeks, bone repair took place at all thirds. Histometrically, proportions of newly formed bone did not alter at TT, IT and CT, whereas significantly enhanced bone formation was observed for the 12-week group, irrespective of the third. The results demonstrated that although the method used to stabilize the mandibular osteotomy allowed bone repair to occur, differences in the dynamics of bone healing may take place along the osteotomy site, depending on the action of tension and compression forces generated by masticatory muscles. [source]


Skeletal Cell Fate Decisions Within Periosteum and Bone Marrow During Bone Regeneration,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 2 2009
Céline Colnot
Abstract Bone repair requires the mobilization of adult skeletal stem cells/progenitors to allow deposition of cartilage and bone at the injury site. These stem cells/progenitors are believed to come from multiple sources including the bone marrow and the periosteum. The goal of this study was to establish the cellular contributions of bone marrow and periosteum to bone healing in vivo and to assess the effect of the tissue environment on cell differentiation within bone marrow and periosteum. Results show that periosteal injuries heal by endochondral ossification, whereas bone marrow injuries heal by intramembranous ossification, indicating that distinct cellular responses occur within these tissues during repair. Next, lineage analyses were used to track the fate of cells derived from periosteum, bone marrow, and endosteum, a subcompartment of the bone marrow. Skeletal progenitor cells were found to be recruited locally and concurrently from periosteum and/or bone marrow/endosteum during bone repair. Periosteum and bone marrow/endosteum both gave rise to osteoblasts, whereas the periosteum was the major source of chondrocytes. Finally, results show that intrinsic and environmental signals modulate cell fate decisions within these tissues. In conclusion, this study sheds light into the origins of skeletal stem cells/progenitors during bone regeneration and indicates that periosteum, endosteum, and bone marrow contain pools of stem cells/progenitors with distinct osteogenic and chondrogenic potentials that vary with the tissue environment. [source]


Models of tibial fracture healing in normal and Nf1-deficient mice

JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 8 2008
Aaron Schindeler
Abstract Delayed union and nonunion are common complications associated with tibial fractures, particularly in the distal tibia. Existing mouse tibial fracture models are typically closed and middiaphyseal, and thus poorly recapitulate the prevailing conditions following surgery on a human open distal tibial fracture. This report describes our development of two open tibial fracture models in the mouse, where the bone is broken either in the tibial midshaft (mid-diaphysis) or in the distal tibia. Fractures in the distal tibial model showed delayed repair compared to fractures in the tibial midshaft. These tibial fracture models were applied to both wild-type and Nf1-deficient (Nf1+/,) mice. Bone repair has been reported to be exceptionally problematic in human NF1 patients, and these patients can also spontaneously develop tibial nonunions (known as congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia), which are recalcitrant to even vigorous intervention. pQCT analysis confirmed no fundamental differences in cortical or cancellous bone in Nf1 -deficient mouse tibiae compared to wild-type mice. Although no difference in bone healing was seen in the tibial midshaft fracture model, the healing of distal tibial fractures was found to be impaired in Nf1+/, mice. The histological features associated with nonunited Nf1+/, fractures were variable, but included delayed cartilage removal, disproportionate fibrous invasion, insufficient new bone anabolism, and excessive catabolism. These findings imply that the pathology of tibial pseudarthrosis in human NF1 is complex and likely to be multifactorial. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1053,1060, 2008 [source]


Regeneration of large bone defects in sheep using bone marrow stromal cells

JOURNAL OF TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE, Issue 5 2008
P. Giannoni
Abstract Bone repair was addressed in a critical-sized defect model in sheep, combining a ceramic biomaterial and mesenchymal progenitor cells. The defects in the tibial mid-diaphysis were treated with autologous bone or with a silicon-stabilized tricalcium phosphate biomaterial, implemented or not by the addition of expanded bone marrow stromal cells. An internal locking compression plate and an external fixator were applied for stabilization. Radiographies were taken during the 8 months follow-up: the pixel grey levels of the lesion areas were determined to evaluate the repair process radiologically. Microradiography, histology and vascular density tests were performed. The autologous bone-treated group performed best, as assessed radiologically, within 20,24 weeks after surgery. Very limited healing was detected in the other experimental group: a partial bone deposition occurred at the periphery of the bony stumps only in the cell-seeded scaffolds. Interestingly, this effect ended within 20,24 weeks, as for the autologous bone, suggesting similar kinetics of the repair processes involved. Moreover, bone deposition was located where a significant reduction of the ceramic scaffold was detected. Faxitron microradiography and histology data confirmed these results. Vascular density analysis evidenced that cell-seeded scaffolds supported an increased vascular ingrowth. Thus, the interactions with the proper microenvironment and the oxygen and nutrient supply in the inner part of the constructs seem fundamental to initiate scaffold substitution and to improve cell performance in tissue-engineered approaches to bone repair. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


Materials in particulate form for tissue engineering.

JOURNAL OF TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE, Issue 2 2007

Abstract Materials in particulate form have been the subjects of intensive research in view of their use as drug delivery systems. While within this application there are still issues to be addressed, these systems are now being regarded as having a great potential for tissue engineering applications. Bone repair is a very demanding task, due to the specific characteristics of skeletal tissues, and the design of scaffolds for bone tissue engineering presents several difficulties. Materials in particulate form are now seen as a means of achieving higher control over parameters such as porosity, pore size, surface area and the mechanical properties of the scaffold. These materials also have the potential to incorporate biologically active molecules for release and to serve as carriers for cells. It is believed that the combination of these features would create a more efficient approach towards regeneration. This review focuses on the application of materials in particulate form for bone tissue engineering. A brief overview of bone biology and the healing process is also provided in order to place the application in its broader context. An original compilation of molecules with a documented role in bone tissue biology is listed, as they have the potential to be used in bone tissue engineering strategies. To sum up this review, examples of works addressing the above aspects are presented. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


Bone repair with a form of BMP-2 engineered for incorporation into fibrin cell ingrowth matrices,

BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOENGINEERING, Issue 3 2005
Hugo G. Schmoekel
Abstract Most growth factors naturally involved in development and regeneration demonstrate strong binding to the extracellular matrix and are retained there until being locally mobilized by cells. In spite of this feedback between cell activity and growth factor mobilization in the extracellular matrix, this approach has not been extensively explored in therapeutic situations. We present an engineered bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) fusion protein that mimics such function in a surgically relevant matrix, fibrin, incorporated into the matrix until it is locally liberated by cell surface-associated proteases. A tripartite fusion protein, denoted TG-pl-BMP-2, was designed and produced recombinantly. An N-terminal transglutaminase substrate (TG) domain provides covalent attachment to fibrin during coagulation under the influence of the blood transglutaminase factor XIIIa. A central plasmin substrate (pl) domain provides a cleavage site for local release of the attached growth factor from the fibrin matrix under the influence of cell-activated plasmin. A C-terminal human BMP-2 domain provides osteogenic activity. TG-pl-BMP-2 in fibrin was evaluated in vivo in critical-size craniotomy defects in rats, where it induced 76% more defect healing with bone at 3 weeks with a dose of 1 ,g/defect than wildtype BMP-2 in fibrin. After a dosing study in rabbits, the engineered growth factor in fibrin was evaluated in a prospective clinical study for pancarpal fusion in dogs, where it induced statistically faster and more extensive bone bridging than equivalent treatment with cancellous bone autograft. The strong healing response shown by fibrin including a bound BMP-2 variant suggests that with the combination of bound growth factor and ingrowth matrix, it may be possible to improve upon the natural growth factor and even upon tissue autograft. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source]


Bone repair and augmentation using block of sintered bovine-derived anorganic bone graft in cranial bone defect model

CLINICAL ORAL IMPLANTS RESEARCH, Issue 4 2009
Tania Mary Cestari
Abstract Objective: To histomorphometrically investigate the repair of critical size defects (CSDs) and bone augmentation in cranial walls using block of sintered bovine-derived anorganic bone (sBDAB) graft. Material and methods: Forty guinea-pigs were divided into test (n=20) and CSD control (n=20) groups. In each animal, a full-thickness bone defect with 9.5 mm diameter was made in the frontal bone. The defects were filled with an sBDAB block soaked in blood in the test group and with blood clot in the CSD control group. The skulls were collected at 0 h (n=2) and 30, 90 and 180 days (n=6/group and period) postoperatively. The volume density and total volume of newly formed bone, sBDAB, blood vessels and connective tissue, vertical thickness of removed bone plug, sBDAB block and graft area were evaluated. Results: The vertical thickness of the adapted sBDAB block was 3.8 times higher than that of the removed bone plug and did not show significant difference between periods, filling in average 29.8% of the total graft region. The sBDAB block exhibited complete osseointegration with the borders of the defect at 90 days. At 90 and 180 days, the vertical thickness of the graft was 279% in the average, and the total volume of bone augmentation was, respectively, 78.8% and 148.5% higher compared with the removed bone plug. The defects of the CDS control group showed limited osteogenesis and filling by connective tissue plus tegument. Conclusion: The sBDAB block can be used to promote repair of CSDs and bone augmentation in the craniomaxillofacial region, due to its good osteoconductive and slow resorptive properties. [source]


Positively Charged Material Surfaces Generated by Plasma Polymerized Allylamine Enhance Vinculin Mobility in Vital Human Osteoblastss,

ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 8 2010
Henrike Rebl
Abstract Several studies suggest that the modification of an implant surface by chemical means plays an important role in bone tissue engineering. Previously we have shown that osteoblast cell adhesion and spreading can strongly be increased by a positively charged surface. Cell adhesion and migration are two vital processes that are completely dependent on coordinated formation of focal adhesions. Changes in the organization of the actin cytoskeleton and the focal adhesions are essential for numerous cellular processes including cell motility and tissue morphogenesis. We examined the mobility of the cytoskeletally associated protein vinculin on functionalized surfaces using plasma polymerized allylamine (PPAAm), a homogenous plasma polymer layer with randomly distributed amino groups. In living, GFP,vinculin transfected osteoblastic cells we determined a significant increase in vinculin mobility and vinculin contact length on PPAAm compared to collagen I coated surfaces during the initial adhesion phase. We suggest that positive charges control the cell physiology which seems to be dominant over the integrin receptor binding to collagen I. The results emphasize the role of the surface charge for the design of artificial scaffolds in bone repair. [source]


Lipopolysaccharide alters decorin and biglycan synthesis in rat alveolar bone osteoblasts: consequences for bone repair during periodontal disease

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 3 2008
Helen C. Roberts
A prime pathogenic agent associated with periodontitis is lipopolysaccharide (LPS) derived from Porphyromonas gingivalis. This study investigated the effects of P. gingivalis LPS on osteoblasts, which are responsible for alveolar bone repair. Bone cells were obtained from explants of rat alveolar bone chips and cultured with 0,200 ng ml,1 of P. gingivalis LPS. Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS significantly increased cell proliferation and inhibited osteoblast differentiation, as judged by reduced alkaline phosphatase activity. Analysis of biglycan mRNA and protein levels indicated that P. gingivalis LPS significantly delayed the normally high expression of biglycan during the early stages of culture, which are associated with cell proliferation and early differentiation of progenitor cells. In the presence of P. gingivalis LPS, decorin expression by the alveolar bone cells was reduced during periods of culture relating to collagen fibrillogenesis and mineral deposition. Analysis of glycosaminoglycan chains conjugated to these proteoglycans suggested that in the presence of P. gingivalis LPS, dermatan sulfate persisted within the matrix. This study suggests that P. gingivalis LPS influences the expression and processing of decorin and biglycan in the matrix, altering alveolar bone cell activity and osteoblast phenotype development. The consequences of this altered expression in relation to hindering bone repair as part of the cycle of events during periodontal disease are discussed. [source]


Effect of Silicate-Substitution on Attachment and Early Development of Human Osteoblast-Like Cells Seeded on Microporous Hydroxyapatite Discs,

ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 1-2 2010
Katharina Guth
Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a well-established graft material used in bone repair. Silicon-substituted hydroxyapatite (SA; 0.8,wt% Si) has shown greater bone ingrowth and bone coverage than phase pure HA. To assess the effect of microporosity on sensitivity of cell attachment to surface physiochemistry, microporous SA and HA discs, and control Thermanox (TMX) discs were incubated with osteoblast-like cells (5,×,104 HOS-TE85 cells) under differing tissue culture conditions. To investigate early cellular attachment, organization, and differentiation, cells were also stained for integrin,,5,1, actin, and runt-related transcription factor (RUNX-2), respectively, after incubation on HA, SA, and TMX discs for 3 days. No significant differences emerged between HA, SA, and TMX discs in mean numbers of cells attached in serum free medium (SFM) over 90,min incubation. In contrast, significantly more cells were attached to SA than HA after 180,min incubation in complete medium (C-MEM) containing fetal calf serum (p,<,0.05). Cell attachment to SA and HA discs pre-conditioned in SFM supplemented with fibronectin (FN) was lower than discs pre-conditioned in C-MEM, suggesting sensitivity of an active FN conformation to the presence of co-adsorbates. Confocal microscopy demonstrated significantly more co-localization of integrin ,5,1 and actin on SA than HA. Translocalization of RUNX-2 to the nucleus was stronger in cells incubated on SA. Microporosity did not diminish the effect of surface physiochemistry on cell adhesion, and enhanced cell attachment for SA appears to be mediated by differences in the quality of adsorbed protein rather than via direct effects of substrate chemistry. [source]


Bone repair in mandibular body osteotomy after using 2.0 miniplate system , histological and histometric analysis in dogs

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY, Issue 2 2008
Cássio Edvard Sverzut
Summary The objective of this study was to evaluate the bone repair along a mandibular body osteotomy after using a 2.0 miniplate system. Nine adult mongrel dogs were subjected to unilateral continuous defect through an osteotomy between the mandibular 3rd and 4th premolars. Two four-hole miniplates were placed in accordance with the Arbeitgeimeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen Manual. Miniplates adapted to the alveolar processes were fixed monocortically with 6.0-mm-length titanium alloy self-tapping screws, whereas miniplates placed near the mandible bases were fixed bicortically. At 2, 6 and 12 weeks, three dogs were sacrificed per period, and the osteotomy sites were removed, divided into three thirds (Tension Third, TT; Intermediary Third, IT; Compression Third, CT) and prepared for conventional and polarized light microscopy. At 6 weeks, while the CT repaired faster and showed bone union by woven bone formation, the TT and IT exhibited a ligament-like fibrous connective tissue inserted in, and connecting, newly formed woven bone overlying the parent lamellar bone edges. At 12 weeks, bone repair took place at all thirds. Histometrically, proportions of newly formed bone did not alter at TT, IT and CT, whereas significantly enhanced bone formation was observed for the 12-week group, irrespective of the third. The results demonstrated that although the method used to stabilize the mandibular osteotomy allowed bone repair to occur, differences in the dynamics of bone healing may take place along the osteotomy site, depending on the action of tension and compression forces generated by masticatory muscles. [source]


Water absorption properties of phosphate glass fiber-reinforced poly-,-caprolactone composites for craniofacial bone repair

JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE, Issue 6 2008
Levent Onal
Abstract The moisture uptake of polymers and composites has increasing significance where these materials are specified for invasive, long-term medical applications. Here we analyze mass gain and the ensuing degradation mechanisms in phosphate glass fiber reinforced poly-,-caprolactone laminates. Specimens were manufactured using in situ polymerization of ,-caprolactone around a bed of phosphate glass fibers. The latter were sized with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane to control the rate of modulus degradation. Fiber content was the main variable in the study, and it was found that the moisture diffusion coefficient increased significantly with increasing fiber volume fraction. Diffusion, plasticization, and leaching of constituents appear to be the dominant aspects of the process over these short-term tests. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2008 [source]


rBMP represses Wnt signaling and influences skeletal progenitor cell fate specification during bone repair

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 6 2010
Steve Minear
Abstract Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) participate in multiple stages of the fetal skeletogenic program from promoting cell condensation to regulating chondrogenesis and bone formation through endochondral ossification. Here, we show that these pleiotropic functions are recapitulated when recombinant BMPs are used to augment skeletal tissue repair. In addition to their well-documented ability to stimulate chondrogenesis in a skeletal injury, we show that recombinant BMPs (rBMPs) simultaneously suppress the differentiation of skeletal progenitor cells in the endosteum and bone marrow cavity to an osteoblast lineage. Both the prochondrogenic and antiosteogenic effects are achieved because rBMP inhibits endogenous ,-catenin-dependent Wnt signaling. In the injured periosteum, this repression of Wnt activity results in sox9 upregulation; consequently, cells in the injured periosteum adopt a chondrogenic fate. In the injured endosteum, rBMP also inhibits Wnt signaling, which results in the runx2 and collagen type I downregulation; consequently, cells in this region fail to differentiate into osteoblasts. In muscle surrounding the skeletal injury site, rBMP treatment induces Smad phosphorylation followed by exuberant cell proliferation, an increase in alkaline phosphatase activity, and chondrogenic differentiation. Thus different populations of adult skeletal progenitor cells interpret the same rBMP stimulus in unique ways, and these responses mirror the pleiotropic effects of BMPs during fetal skeletogenesis. These mechanistic insights may be particularly useful for optimizing the reparative potential of rBMPs while simultaneously minimizing their adverse outcomes. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research [source]


Spatiotemporal Delivery Strategies for Promoting Musculoskeletal Tissue Regeneration,,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 9 2009
Robert E Guldberg PhD
Abstract A primary regenerative medicine strategy is to stimulate or augment endogenous repair mechanisms that promote functional restoration of damaged or degenerated tissues. There is increasing evidence that maximizing the potency of tissue regenerative therapies will require design and development of delivery approaches that provide controlled spatiotemporal release of key signaling molecules. Guidance on which factors to deliver and the timing of delivery is emerging from advances in understanding of critical pathways involved in the development of integrated musculoskeletal tissues. A broad range of biomaterials-based deployment technologies are becoming available that allow controlled spatial presentation and release kinetics of biological cues. The purpose of this perspective article is to review promising spatiotemporal delivery strategies designed to promote functional tissue regeneration with an emphasis on vascularized bone repair. [source]


Osteoblast Function Is Compromised at Sites of Focal Bone Erosion in Inflammatory Arthritis,,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 9 2009
Nicole C Walsh PhD
Abstract In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), synovial inflammation results in focal erosion of articular bone. Despite treatment attenuating inflammation, repair of erosions with adequate formation of new bone is uncommon in RA, suggesting that bone formation may be compromised at these sites. Dynamic bone histomorphometry was used in a murine model of RA to determine the impact of inflammation on osteoblast function within eroded arthritic bone. Bone formation rates at bone surfaces adjacent to inflammation were similar to those observed in nonarthritic bone; therefore, osteoblast activity is unlikely to compensate for the increased bone resorption at these sites. Within arthritic bone, the extent of actively mineralizing surface was reduced at bone surfaces adjacent to inflammation compared with bone surfaces adjacent to normal marrow. Consistent with the reduction in mineralized bone formation, there was a notable paucity of cells expressing the mid- to late stage osteoblast lineage marker alkaline phosphatase, despite a clear presence of cells expressing the early osteoblast lineage marker Runx2. In addition, several members of the Dickkopf and secreted Frizzled-related protein families of Wnt signaling antagonists were upregulated in arthritic synovial tissues, suggesting that inhibition of Wnt signaling could be one mechanism contributing to impaired osteoblast function within arthritic bone. Together, these data indicate that the presence of inflammation within arthritic bone impairs osteoblast capacity to form adequate mineralized bone, thus contributing to the net loss of bone and failure of bone repair at sites of focal bone erosion in RA. [source]


Skeletal Cell Fate Decisions Within Periosteum and Bone Marrow During Bone Regeneration,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 2 2009
Céline Colnot
Abstract Bone repair requires the mobilization of adult skeletal stem cells/progenitors to allow deposition of cartilage and bone at the injury site. These stem cells/progenitors are believed to come from multiple sources including the bone marrow and the periosteum. The goal of this study was to establish the cellular contributions of bone marrow and periosteum to bone healing in vivo and to assess the effect of the tissue environment on cell differentiation within bone marrow and periosteum. Results show that periosteal injuries heal by endochondral ossification, whereas bone marrow injuries heal by intramembranous ossification, indicating that distinct cellular responses occur within these tissues during repair. Next, lineage analyses were used to track the fate of cells derived from periosteum, bone marrow, and endosteum, a subcompartment of the bone marrow. Skeletal progenitor cells were found to be recruited locally and concurrently from periosteum and/or bone marrow/endosteum during bone repair. Periosteum and bone marrow/endosteum both gave rise to osteoblasts, whereas the periosteum was the major source of chondrocytes. Finally, results show that intrinsic and environmental signals modulate cell fate decisions within these tissues. In conclusion, this study sheds light into the origins of skeletal stem cells/progenitors during bone regeneration and indicates that periosteum, endosteum, and bone marrow contain pools of stem cells/progenitors with distinct osteogenic and chondrogenic potentials that vary with the tissue environment. [source]


Enhanced Chondrogenesis and Wnt Signaling in PTH-Treated Fractures,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 12 2007
Sanjeev Kakar
Abstract Studies have shown that systemic PTH treatment enhanced the rate of bone repair in rodent models. However, the mechanisms through which PTH affects bone repair have not been elucidated. In these studies we show that PTH primarily enhanced the earliest stages of endochondral bone repair by increasing chondrocyte recruitment and rate of differentiation. In coordination with these cellular events, we observed an increased level of canonical Wnt-signaling in PTH-treated bones at multiple time-points across the time-course of fracture repair, supporting the conclusion that PTH responses are at least in part mediated through Wnt signaling. Introduction: Since FDA approval of PTH [PTH(1,34); Forteo] as a treatment for osteoporosis, there has been interest in its use in other musculoskeletal conditions. Fracture repair is one area in which PTH may have a significant clinical impact. Multiple animal studies have shown that systemic PTH treatment of healing fractures increased both callus volume and return of mechanical competence in models of fracture healing. Whereas the potential for PTH has been established, the mechanism(s) by which PTH produces these effects remain elusive. Materials and Methods: Closed femoral fractures were generated in 8-wk-old male C57Bl/6 mice followed by daily systemic injections of either saline (control) or 30 ,g/kg PTH(1,34) for 14 days after fracture. Bones were harvested at days 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 28 after fracture and analyzed at the tissue level by radiography and histomorphometry and at the molecular and biochemical levels level by RNase protection assay (RPA), real-time PCR, and Western blot analysis. Results: Quantitative ,CT analysis showed that PTH treatment induced a larger callus cross-sectional area, length, and total volume compared with controls. Molecular analysis of the expression of extracellular matrix genes associated with chondrogenesis and osteogenesis showed that PTH treated fractures displayed a 3-fold greater increase in chondrogenesis relative to osteogenesis over the course of the repair process. In addition, chondrocyte hypertrophy occurred earlier in the PTH-treated callus tissues. Analysis of the expression of potential mediators of PTH actions showed that PTH treatment significantly induced the expression of Wnts 4, 5a, 5b, and 10b and increased levels of unphosphorylated, nuclear localized ,-catenin protein, a central feature of canonical Wnt signaling. Conclusions: These results showed that the PTH-mediated enhancement of fracture repair is primarily associated with an amplification of chondrocyte recruitment and maturation in the early fracture callus. Associated with these cellular effects, we observed an increase in canonical Wnt signaling supporting the conclusion that PTH effects on bone repair are mediated at least in part through the activation of Wnt-signaling pathways. [source]


Application of Histomorphometric Methods to the Study of Bone Repair,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 10 2005
Louis C Gerstenfeld
Abstract ABSTRACT: Standardized methods for the histomorphometric assessment of bone are essential features of most studies of metabolic bone diseases and their treatments. These methodologies were developed to assess coupled remodeling, focusing primarily on osteoblasts and osteoclasts, the anabolic and catabolic rates of these cells, and structural features of mature bone. Research studies on bone healing and the development of new therapeutic approaches for the enhancement of bone repair also require a comprehensive understanding of the basic cellular and tissue level mechanisms that underlie these processes. However, the histological methods developed for metabolic bone disease studies are not completely suitable for studies of bone repair because they are based on assumptions that there is little variation in tissue composition within a sample of bone and not generally designed to quantify other types of tissues, such as cartilage, that contribute to bone healing. These techniques also do not provide tissue-based structural measurements that are relatable to the specific types of biomechanical and radiographic structural assessments that are used to determine rates of bone healing. These deficiencies in current histological approaches therefore point to the need to establish standardized criteria for the histomorphometric assessments that are specifically adapted for the study of bone repair in models of fracture healing and bone regeneration. In this Perspective, we outline what we believe to be the specific structural, tissue. and cellular aspects that need to be addressed to establish these standardized criteria for the histomorphometric assessment of bone repair. We present the specific technical considerations that need to be addressed to appropriately sample repair tissues to obtain statistically meaningful results and suggest specific procedures and definitions of nomenclatures for the application of this technology to bone repair. Finally, we present how aspects of histomorphometric measurements of bone repair can be related to biomechanical and radiographic imaging properties that functionally define rates of bone healing, and thus, how these tools can be used to provide corroborating data. [source]


Hepatocyte Growth Factor Contributes to Fracture Repair by Upregulating the Expression of BMP Receptors,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 10 2005
Yuuki Imai MD
Abstract Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is activated and the expression of BMP receptors (BMPRs) is induced around the fracture site during the early phase of fracture repair. HGF facilitates the expression of BMPRs in mesenchymal cells. This study suggests that HGF contributes to fracture repair by inducing the expression of BMPRs. Introduction: The precise mechanisms that control the upregulation of BMP, BMPRs, and other molecules involved in bone repair are not completely understood. In this study, we hypothesized that HGF, activated through the action of thrombin on the HGF activator, may enhance BMP action through the local induction of BMP or BMPRs. Materials and Methods: Callus samples from tibial fractures in mice were harvested for immunohistochemical analysis of HGF and phosphorylated c-Met, for in situ hybridization of BMPRs, and for real-time RT-PCR analysis for the expression of HGF, c-Met, and BMPRs. To study the changes in gene expression of BMPRs in response to HGF, C3H10T1/2 cells were cultured with or without HGF and harvested for real-time RT-PCR and for Western blot analysis. To evaluate the contribution of HGF to the biological action of BMP2, C3H10T1/2 cells and primary muscle-derived mesenchymal cells were precultured with HGF and cultured with BMP2. In addition, the expression of the luciferase gene linked to the Id1 promoter containing the BMP responsive element and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were assayed. Results: Positive immunostaining of HGF and phosphorylated c-Met was detected around the fracture site at 1 day after the fracture was made. mRNA expression of BMPRs was increased 1 day after fracture and localized in mesenchymal cells at the fracture site. From an in vitro study, the expression of mRNA for BMPRs was elevated by treatment with HGF, but the expression of BMP4 did not change. Western blot analysis also showed the upregulation of BMPR2 by HGF treatment. The results from the luciferase and ALP assays indicated increased responsiveness to BMPs by treating with HGF. Conclusions: This study indicates that HGF is activated and expressed at the fracture site and that HGF induces the upregulation of BMPRs in mesenchymal cells. Furthermore, HGF may facilitate BMP signaling without altering the expression of BMP molecules. [source]


Effects of Low-Dose Prednisone on Bone Metabolism,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2005
Francine N Ton MD
Abstract Prednisone 5 mg/day suppresses multiple indices of bone formation in a randomized placebo-controlled trial in healthy postmenopausal females. This suggests that even low doses of prednisone may reduce bone repair or renewal and may have adverse effects on bone mass and/or bone strength. Introduction: High doses of chronic glucocorticoids are known to have adverse effects on bone, and measures to prevent bone loss are well established for doses >7.5 mg daily, because these doses can cause premature or exaggerated osteoporosis. However, it is unclear if chronic prednisone doses of 5 mg daily have the same effects on bone. There are no established recommendations for preventing glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in people taking prednisone 5 mg daily, a dose used frequently in medical practice to treat diseases of the lungs, joints, skin, muscles, eyes, nerves, etc. Our primary objective was to test whether prednisone 5 mg daily affects serum and urine indices of bone metabolism in healthy postmenopausal women. Our secondary objectives were to determine if prednisone 5 mg affected systolic or diastolic blood pressure or causes side effects. Materials and Methods: A double-blinded randomized placebo-controlled 8-week trial in 50 healthy postmenopausal women was conducted at the Massachusetts General Hospital Outpatient General Clinical Research Center. Patients were randomly assigned to prednisone 5 mg daily or matching placebo for 6 weeks, followed by a 2-week recovery phase. Markers of bone formation and resorption were determined at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8. Indices of osteoblast activity included serum propeptide of type I N-terminal procollagen (PINP), propeptide of type I C-terminal procollagen (PICP), osteocalcin, and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BSALP). Indices of osteoclast activity included urine and serum type I collagen N-telopeptide (NTX) and free urinary deoxypyridinoline (DPD). Results and Conclusions: Prednisone rapidly and significantly decreased serum PINP (p < 0.01), PICP (p < 0.01), and osteocalcin (p < 0.01) and free urinary deoxypyridinoline (p = 0.017). These changes were largely reversed during the recovery period. Side effects were indistinguishable in the two groups. Neither systolic nor diastolic blood pressure changed significantly throughout the study between the two groups. In conclusion, low-dose prednisone significantly decreases indices of bone formation and may decrease indices of bone resorption in postmenopausal women. Further studies are needed to assess the effects of low-dose prednisone on BMD and fracture risk. [source]


Shock Wave Application Enhances Pertussis Toxin Protein-Sensitive Bone Formation of Segmental Femoral Defect in Rats,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 12 2003
Yeung-Jen Chen
Abstract Extracorporeal shock waves (ESWs) elicit a dose-dependent effect on the healing of segmental femoral defects in rats. After ESW treatment, the segmental defect underwent progressive mesenchymal aggregation, endochondral ossification, and hard callus formation. Along with the intensive bone formation, there was a persistent increase in TGF-,1 and BMP-2 expression. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin reduced ESW-promoted callus formation and gap healing, which presumably suggests that Gi proteins mediate osteogenic signaling. Introduction: Extracorporeal shock waves (ESWs) have previously been used to promote bone repair. In our previous report, we found that ESWs promoted osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal cells through membrane perturbation and activation of Ras protein. In this report, we show that ESWs elicit a dose-dependent effect on the healing of segmental defects and that Gi proteins play an important role in mediating ESW stimulation. Materials and Methods: Rats with segmental femoral defects were subjected to ESW treatment at different energy flux densities (EFD) and impulses. Bone mass (mineral density and calcium content), osteogenic activities (bone alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin content), and immunohistochemistry were assessed. Results: An optimal ESW energy (500 impulses at 0.16 mJ/mm2 EFD) stimulated complete bone healing without complications. ESW-augmented healing was characterized by significant increases (p < 0.01) in callus size, bone mineral density, and bone tissue formation. With exposure to ESW, alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin production in calluses were found to be significantly enhanced (p < 0.05). After ESW treatment, the histological changes we noted included progressive mesenchymal aggregation, endochondral ossification, and hard callus formation. Intensive bone formation was associated with a persistent increase in transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-,1) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) expression, suggesting both growth factors were active in ESW-promoted bone formation. We also found that pertussis toxin, an inhibitor of membrane-bound Gi proteins, significantly reduced (p < 0.01) ESW promotion of callus formation and fracture healing. Conclusion: ESW treatments enhanced bone formation and the healing of segmental femoral defects in rats. It also seems likely that TGF-,1 and BMP-2 are important osteogenic factors for ESW promotion of fracture healing, presumably through Gi protein-mediated osteogenic signaling. [source]


Generalized cervical root resorption associated with periodontal disease

JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 11 2001
Wouter Beertsen
Abstract Background and description of case: The etiology and pathogenesis of generalized cervical root resorptions is not well understood. In the present report, a case of severe cervical root resorption involving 24 anterior and posterior teeth is presented. The lesions developed within a period of 2 years after the patient had changed to an acid-enriched diet. They extended far into the coronal dentin and were associated with gingival inflammation and crestal bone resorption. However, no generalized clinical attachment loss had occurred. Culturing of subgingival plaque revealed the presence of several putative periodontal pathogens among which Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Treatment consisted of mechanical debridement supported by systemic antibiotics (amoxycillin plus metronidazole) and dietary advice. Results: Within 1 year after the onset of treatment, all resorptive lesions had repaired by ingrowth of a radio-opaque mineralized tissue. The crestal areas showed radiological evidence of bone repair. 3 years after the onset of therapy, one premolar was extracted and examined histologically. It appeared that irregularly-shaped masses of woven bone-like tissue had invaded into the domain of the resorbed coronal dentin and were bordered by thin layers of acellular cementum. Conclusion: It is concluded that, in this patient, the cervical resorptions were likely the result of an osteoclastic response extending into the roots because the root-protective role of the junctional epithelium did not develop. We hypothesize that this was due to the combined effects of a periodontopathogenic microflora and a dietary confounding factor. Zusammenfassung Hintergrund und Beschreibung des Falls: Die Ätiologie und die Pathogenese der generalisierten Wurzelresorptionen ist nicht besonders bekannt. In der vorliegenden Fallpräsentation wird ein schwerer Fall von Wurzelresorption gezeigt, die 24 anteriore und posteriore Zähne einbezog. Die Läsionen entwickelten sich innerhalb einer Periode von 2 Jahren, nachdem der Patient zu einer Säure-angereicherten Diät gewechselt hatte. Die Läsionen dehnten sich in das koronale Dentin aus und waren mit gingivaler Entzündung und krestaler Knochenresorption verbunden. Jedoch wurde kein generalisierter Attachmentverlust beobachtet. Die Kultur der subgingivalen Plaque erbrachte das Vorhandensein von verschiedenen putativen parodontalen Pathogenen, unter ihnen Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans und Porphyromonas gingivalis. Die Behandlung bestand in der mechanischen Reinigung unterstützt mit systemischen Antibiotika (Amoxicillin und Metronidazol) und Diätanweisungen. Ergebnisse: Innerhalb eines Jahres nach dem Beginn der Therapie waren alle Resorptionsläsionen repariert durch das Einwachsen von röntgenopakem mineralisierten Gewebe. Die krestalen Regionen zeigten radiologisch nachgewiesene Knochenreparatur. 3 Jahre nach Therapiebeginn wurde ein Prämolar extrahiert und histologisch untersucht. Es schien, daß irreguläre geformte Massen von verflochtenem knochen-ähnlichen Gewebe in den Hauptteil des resorbierten koronalen Dentins hineingelangt sind und von dünnen Schichten azellulären Zementes begrenzt wurden. Zusammenfassung: Es wird geschlußfolgert, daß bei diesem Patient die zervikalen Resorptionen wahrscheinlich das Ergebnis einer osteoklastischen Reaktion waren, bis in die Wurzeln ausgedehnt, weil sich die wurzelschützende Rolle des Verbindungsepithels nich entwickelt hatte. Wir nehmen an, daß dies in der Folge eines kombinierten Effektes von parodontopathogenen Keimen und eines verwirrenden diätetischen Faktors geschah. Résumé Origine: L'étiologie et la pathogenèse des résorptions radiculaires cervicales généralisées ne sont pas suffisamment connues. Dans le rapport présent, un cas de résorption radiculaire cervicale sévère se rapportant à 24 dents antérieures et postérieures est présenté. Les lésions s'étaint développées durant les 2 années qui ont suivi le changement de régime alimentaire du patient vers un régime plus acide. Elles s'étendaient profondément dans la dentine coronaire et étaient associées à une inflammation gingivale et une résorption osseuse crestale. Cependant, aucune perte d'attache clinique généralisée n'est apparue. La culture de la plaque dentaire sous-gingivale a révélé la présence de plusieurs pathogènes parodontaux putatifs parmi lesquels l'Actinobaccilus actinomycetemcomitans et le Porphyromonas gingivalis. Le traitement a consisté en un nettoyage mécanique associéà l'utilisation d'antibiotiques par voie systémique (amoxycilline + métronidazole) et un conseil diététique. Résultats. Dans l'année qui a suivi ce traitement, toutes les lésions de résorption ont été guéries par la croissance d'un tissu minéralisé radio-opaque. Les zones crestales montraient une évidence radiologique de réparation osseuse. 3 ans après le démarrage de ce traitement, une prémolaire a été avulsée et examinée histologiquement. Il est apparu que des masses de formes irrégulières de tissus ressemblant à de l'os ouaté avaient envahi le domaine de dentine coronaire résorbé et étaient entourées par de fines couches de cément acellulaire. Conclusions: Chez ce patient, les résorptions cervicales étaient vraisemblablement dûes à une réponse ostéoclastique s'étendant dans les racines parce que le rôle de protection radiculaire de l'épithélium de jonction ne s'étaient pas développé. Cette situation était vraisemblablement dûe à des effets combinés de la microflore parodonto-pathogène et d'un facteur diététique. [source]


Platelet-rich plasma impairs osteoclast generation from human precursors of peripheral blood

JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 6 2010
Elisabetta Cenni
Abstract Platelet-rich plasma is used to accelerate bone repair for the release of osteogenic growth factors from activated platelets. To date, the effects on osteoclasts have been only scarcely investigated, even though these cells are crucial for bone remodeling. The aim of this research was the evaluation of the effects of thrombin-activated platelets (PRP) on osteoclastogenesis from human blood precursors. We evaluated both the ability to influence osteoclast differentiation induced by the receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL), and the ability to induce osteoclast differentiation without RANKL. In both assays, the incubation with PRP supernatant at 10% did not significantly affect the formation of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP)-positive multinucleated cells that were able to form the F-actin ring. However, when PRP at 25 and 50% was added to the medium without RANKL, the generation of TRACP-positive multinucleated cells was inhibited. PRP, even at 10%, reduced the osteoclast-mediated bone collagen degradation, suggesting inhibition of osteoclast activation. Similarly, after incubation with PRP supernatant, calcitonin receptor mRNA was lower than the untreated samples. In conclusion, PRP at 10% interfered with the complete differentiation process of human osteoclast precursors. At higher concentration it impaired osteoclast formation also at an early stage of differentiation. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:792,797, 2010 [source]


Endothelial cells incubated with platelet-rich plasma express PDGF-B and ICAM-1 and induce bone marrow stromal cell migration

JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 11 2009
Elisabetta Cenni
Abstract Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is used to accelerate bone repair through the growth factors released by platelets. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if PRP induce human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) to express mRNA for osteogenic growth factors and stimulate the migration of bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC). The effects of PRP were compared to those induced by vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) or, as a negative control, by platelet poor plasma (PPP). After incubation with PRP, but not with PPP, HUVEC showed an increased expression of mRNA for platelet derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B), and this effect was not inhibited by an anti-VEGF-A antibody. The migration of BMSC was more stimulated by HUVEC incubated with PRP than by HUVEC incubated with low serum medium or PPP. Besides, PRP increased the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and osteoprotegerin, but did not affect the expression either of the receptor activator for nuclear factor ,B ligand (RANKL) or of RANK. These findings support the hypothesis that PRP contribute to bone repair by favoring the pro-osteogenic function of endothelial cells, including the recruitment of osteoblast precursors and the expression of adhesion molecules for monocyte/macrophages, while inhibiting their pro-osteolytic properties. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:1493,1498, 2009 [source]


Effects of delayed stabilization on fracture healing

JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 12 2007
Theodore Miclau
Abstract Previous studies have revealed that delayed internal fixation can stimulate fracture callus formation and decrease the rate of nonunion. However, the effect of delayed stabilization on stem cell differentiation is unknown. To address this, we created fractures in mouse tibiae and applied external fixation immediately, at 24, 48, 72, or 96 h after injury. Fracture healing was analyzed at 10 days by histological methods for callus, bone, and cartilage formation, and the mechanical properties of the calluses were assessed at 14 days postinjury by tension testing. The results demonstrate that delaying stabilization for 24,96 h does not significantly affect the volume of the callus tissue (TV) and the new bone (BV) that formed by 10 days, or the mechanical properties of the calluses at 14 days, compared to immediate stabilization. However, delaying stabilization for 24,96 h induces 10,40× more cartilage in the fracture calluses compared with fractures stabilized immediately. These findings suggest that delaying stabilization during the early phase of fracture healing may not significantly stimulate bone repair, but may alter the mode of bone repair by directing formation of more cartilage. Fractures that are not rigidly stabilized form a significantly larger amount of callus tissue and cartilage by 10 days postinjury than fractures stabilized at 24,96 h, indicating that mechanical instability influences chondrocytes beyond the first 96 h of fracture healing. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:1552,1558, 2007 [source]


Regulation of implant surface cell adhesion: characterization and quantification of S-phase primary osteoblast adhesions on biomimetic nanoscale substrates

JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 2 2007
Manus J.P. Biggs
Abstract Integration of an orthopedic prosthesis for bone repair must be associated with osseointegration and implant fixation, an ideal that can be approached via topographical modification of the implant/bone interface. It is thought that osteoblasts use cellular extensions to gather spatial information of the topographical surroundings prior to adhesion formation and cellular flattening. Focal adhesions (FAs) are dynamic structures associated with the actin cytoskeleton that form adhesion plaques of clustered integrin receptors that function in coupling the cell cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix (ECM). FAs contain structural and signalling molecules crucial to cell adhesion and survival. To investigate the effects of ordered nanotopographies on osteoblast adhesion formation, primary human osteoblasts (HOBs) were cultured on experimental substrates possessing a defined array of nanoscale pits. Nickel shims of controlled nanopit dimension and configuration were fabricated by electron beam lithography and transferred to polycarbonate (PC) discs via injection molding. Nanopits measuring 120 nm diameter and 100 nm in depth with 300 nm center,center spacing were fabricated in three unique geometric conformations: square, hexagonal, and near-square (300 nm spaced pits in square pattern, but with ±50 nm disorder). Immunofluorescent labeling of vinculin allowed HOB adhesion complexes to be visualized and quantified by image software. Perhipheral adhesions as well as those within the perinuclear region were observed, and adhesion length and number were seen to vary on nanopit substrates relative to smooth PC. S-phase cells on experimental substrates were identified with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) immunofluorescent detection, allowing adhesion quantification to be conducted on a uniform flattened population of cells within the S-phase of the cell cycle. Findings of this study demonstrate the disruptive effects of ordered nanopits on adhesion formation and the role the conformation of nanofeatures plays in modulating these effects. Highly ordered arrays of nanopits resulted in decreased adhesion formation and a reduction in adhesion length, while introducing a degree of controlled disorder present in near-square arrays, was shown to increase focal adhesion formation and size. HOBs were also shown to be affected morphologicaly by the presence and conformation of nanopits. Ordered arrays affected cellular spreading, and induced an elongated cellular phenotype, indicative of increased motility, while near-square nanopit symmetries induced HOB spreading. It is postulated that nanopits affect osteoblast,substrate adhesion by directly or indirectly affecting adhesion complex formation, a phenomenon dependent on nanopit dimension and conformation. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:273,282, 2007 [source]


The effect of aging on distraction osteogenesis in the rat

JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 3 2001
J. Aronson
The effect of age on bone formation in the limb lengthening model of distraction osteogenesis (DO) was investigated in two studies using Sprague,Dawley (SD) rats from two colonies at various ages (CAMM: 9 vs 24 months, Harlan: 4 vs 24 months). External fixators were placed on the right tibiae of 30 male SD rats (20 CAMM, 10 Harlan) and mid-diaphyseal osteotomies were performed. Distraction was performed at 0.2 mm bid for 20 days (CAMM) or 14 days (Harlan). The experimental (DO) and control (contra-lateral) tibiae were removed for high-resolution radiography and decalcified histology. Videomicroscopy was used to quantitate radiodensity, histology (matrix type) and relative areas of cell proliferation, which was identified by proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunochemistry. Both studies demonstrated an age-related decrease in the percent mineralized bone (radiodensity) in the distraction gap (CAMM 9 vs 24 months: 68% vs 51%, P < 0.003; Harlan 4 vs 24 months: 95% vs 36%, P < 0.001) and no significant colony or distraction time-specific difference was seen between the two colonies of 24-month-old rats. Histology was performed on the Harlan rats. The DO gaps in the 24-month-old rats demonstrated less endosteal new bone compared to the 4-month-old rats (P < 0.01), but equivalent periosteal new bone. In 4-month-old rats, PCNA-immunostained cells were organized along the primary matrix front (where the first deposition of osteoid occurs) extending across both periosteal and endosteal surfaces. In 24-month-old rats, PCNA + cells were organized in zones along the periosteal new bone fronts only and irregularly scattered throughout the endosteal gap within a fibrovascular non-ossifying matrix. These results indicate that 24-month-old rats have a relative deficit in endosteal bone formation which may not be related to cell proliferation but rather to cell organization. This model reflects the clinical situation where radiographic findings in older patients demonstrate significant delays in mineralization during DO. We believe this model of DO in aged rats presents unique in vivo opportunities to test hypotheses concerning (1) the effects of aging on bone repair, (2) the effects of pharmacological agents on bone repair in a geriatric setting, and (3) to study the mechanisms underlying DO. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved. [source]


Molecular aspects of healing in stabilized and non-stabilized fractures

JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 1 2001
A. X. Le
Bone formation is a continuous process that is initiated during fetal development and persists in adults in the form of bone regeneration and remodeling. These latter two aspects of bone formation are clearly influenced by the mechanical environment. In this study we tested the hypothesis that alterations in the mechanical environment regulate the program of mesenchymal cell differentiation, and thus the formation of a cartilage or bony callus, at the site of injury. As a first step in testing this hypothesis we produced stabilized and non-stabilized tibial fractures in a mouse model, then used molecular and cellular methods to examine the stage of healing. Using the "molecular map" of the fracture callus, we divided our analyzes into three phases of fracture healing: the inflammatory or initial phase of healing, the soft callus or intermediate stage, and the hard callus stage. Our results show that indian hedgehog(ihh), which regulates aspects of chondrocyte maturation during fetal and early postnatal skeletogenesis, was expressed earlier in an non-stabilized fracture callus as compared to a stabilized callus, ihh persisted in the non-stabilized fracture whereas its expression was down-regulated in the stabilized bone. IHH exerts its effects on chondrocyte maturation through a feedback loop that may involve bone morphogenetic protein 6 [bmp6; (S. Pathi, J.B. Rutenberg, R.L. Johnson, A. Vortkamp, Developmental Biology 209 (1999) 239,253)] and the transcription factor gli3, bmp6 and gli3 were re-induced in domain adjacent to the ihh -positive cells during the soft and hard callus stages of healing. Thus, stabilizing the fracture, which circumvents or decreases the cartilaginous phase of bone repair, correlates with a decrease in ihh signaling in the fracture callus. Collectively, our results illustrate that the ihh signaling pathway participates in fracture repair, and that the mechanical environment affects the temporal induction of ihh, bmp6 and gli3. These data support the hypothesis that mechanical influences affect mesenchymal cell differentiation to bone. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved. [source]


Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound accelerates periodontal wound healing after flap surgery

JOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH, Issue 2 2008
H. Ikai
Background and Objective:, A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound on wound healing in periodontal tissues after mucoperiosteal flap surgery. Material and Methods:, Bony defects were surgically produced bilaterally at the mesial roots of the mandibular fourth premolars in four beagle dogs. The flaps were repositioned to cover the defects and sutured after scaling and planing of the root surface to remove cementum. The affected area in the experimental group was exposed to low-intensity pulsed ultrasound, daily for 20 min, for a period of 4 wk from postoperative day 1 using a probe, 13 mm in diameter. On the control side, no ultrasound was emitted from the probe placed contralaterally. After the experiment, tissue samples were dissected out and fixed in 10% formalin for histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Results:, The experimental group showed that the processes in regeneration of both cementum and mandibular bone were accelerated by low-intensity pulsed ultrasound compared with the control group. In addition, the expression level of heat shock protein 70 was higher in the gingival epithelial cells of the low-intensity pulsed ultrasound-treated tooth. Conclusion:, Our results suggest that osteoblasts, as well as cells in periodontal ligament and gingival epithelium, respond to mechanical stress loaded by low-intensity pulsed ultrasound, and that ultrasound accelerates periodontal wound healing and bone repair. [source]