An $\textit{in vivo}$ comparison study between strontium nanoparticles and rhBMP2

TL;DR

This study compares the effectiveness of strontium nanoparticles and rhBMP2 in promoting bone regeneration using Gelfoam sponges as delivery systems, demonstrating potential advantages of strontium nanoparticles in complex fracture healing.

Contribution

It provides an in vivo comparison of strontium nanoparticles and rhBMP2 for bone regeneration, highlighting the potential of strontium nanoparticles as a novel non-biologic therapeutic option.

Findings

Strontium nanoparticle-loaded sponges showed promising bone regeneration effects.

Strontium nanoparticles may outperform rhBMP2 in complex fracture healing.

Strontium nanoparticles are effective non-biologic bone therapeutics.

Abstract

The osteoinductive property of strontium was repeatedly proven in the last decades. Compelling $\textit{in vitro}$ data demonstrated that strontium hydroxyapatite nanoparticles exert a dual action, by promoting osteoblasts-driven matrix secretion and inhibiting osteoclasts-driven matrix resorption. Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP2) is a powerful osteoinductive biologic, used for the treatment of vertebral fractures and critically-sized bone defects. Although effective, the use of rhBMP2 has limitations due its recombinant morphogen nature. In this study, we examined the comparison between two osteoinductive agents: rhBMP2 and the innovative strontium-substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles. To test their effectiveness, we independently loaded Gelfoam sponges with the two osteoinductive agents and used the sponges as agent-carriers. Gelfoam are FDA-approved biodegradable medical devices used as delivery system for musculoskeletal defects. Their porous structure and spongy morphology make them attractive in orthopedic field. The abiotic characterization of the loaded sponges, involving ion release pattern and structure investigation, was followed by $\textit{in vivo}$ implantation onto the periosteum of healthy mice and comparison of the effects induced by each implant was performed. The results demonstrated the use of sponges loaded with strontium nanoparticles as potential bone grafts might provide better outcomes for complex fractures. Strontium nanoparticles are a novel and effective non-biologic treatment for bone injuries and can be used as novel powerful therapeutics for bone regeneration.