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

Background Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta(1)) enhances mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation into osteoblasts. Purpose The aim of the study was to assess whether TGF-beta(1) loaded onto beta-tricalcium phosphate (beta-TCP) synthetic scaffold enhances bone regeneration in a rat calvaria model. The release kinetics of TGF-beta(1) from beta-TCP scaffold was evaluated in vitro. Materials and Methods TGF-beta(1) in various concentrations (1-40 ng/mL) was loaded onto the beta-TCP scaffold, and release kinetics was monitored by ELISA. The effect of TGF-beta(1) 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-beta(1) loaded onto beta-TCP in a rat calvaria model was evaluated in vivo. Results Greater TGF-beta(1) release from the 40 ng/mL concentration was found. A suppressive effect of TGF-beta 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-beta(1); however, blood vessel density and degradation of the scaffold were significantly higher in the TGF-beta(1) group. Conclusion TGF-beta(1) adsorbed to beta-TCP stimulated angiogenesis and scaffold degradation that may enhance bone formation.