Effects of a calcium phosphate-based bone adhesive on bone healing processes in a controlled in vitro and in ovo environment

Bone adhesives offer a promising alternative to metal implants for fracture treatment, particularly in cases involving small bone fragments or difficult surgical access. In this study, we evaluated the performance of a newly synthesized bone adhesive composed of functionalized calcium phosphate nanoparticles and alginate. The effects of the bone adhesive on cell viability, osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation, and angiogenesis were studied. The cell viability assays demonstrated a high biocompatibility, and osteoclasts and osteoblasts differentiated successfully in the presence of the bone adhesive. An increased calcium deposition by osteoblasts was observed, indicating the promotion of bone matrix formation. Using an in ovo femur explant model in the chorioallantoic membrane assay, the formation of new blood vessels around the adhesive implant and early signs of bone formation were observed. These results show that the newly developed bone adhesive has high biocompatibility and does not impair the osteogenic and angiogenic processes that are crucial for bone healing and may even promote them. It is therefore a promising candidate for the treatment of bone fractures.