Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of implantation of mesenchymal stem cell derived condrogenic cells (MSC-DC) on bone healing in segmental defects in rat femur.
Methods
Five-millimeter segmental bone defects were produced in the mid-shaft of the femur of Fisher 344 rats and stabilized with external fixator. The Treatment Group received MSC-DC, seeded on a PLGA scaffold, locally at the site of the bone defect, and Control Group received scaffold only. The healing processes were monitored radiographically (Softex), and studied radiographically (Micro-CT) and histologically.
Results
All the bone defects in the Treatment Group healed radiographically with bridging callus formation at 4 weeks after the procedure, while none of the Control Group had achieved bone union. Micro-CT showed that newly formed bone volume in the Treatment Group at 16 weeks was 1.5 times that of unaffected side. Histological examination showed that the implanted scaffold of the Treatment Group were covered with periosteum-derived bridging callus and filled with cancellous bone-like tissue derived from enchondral ossification.
Conclusion
The results of this study suggest that implantation of MSC-DC surprisingly enhances bone healing in segmental bone defects in rat much better than previously reported similar therapy using MSC.
