Release Behavior and Biological Activity of Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 from Porous PLGA Scaffold

The feasibility of using the poly-(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffold as a carrier for controlled recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) delivery was assessed. PLGA rhBMP-2-loaded scaffolds were fabricated by emulsion polymerization and freeze-dried; a porous morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy. The in vitro release of rhBMP-2 from the polymer was assessed using high performance liquid chromatography. An initial burst release of the incorporated rhBMP-2 was observed over the first 24h followed by an 80.6% sustained release for one month. The rhBMP-2-loaded scaffolds were implanted bilaterally into rat ectopic muscle pouches. The rhBMP-2 implanted animals showed bone formation submuscle space and osteoblasts located in the new bone region while none was seen in the control groups.