In vivo study of a bioactive nanoparticle-gelatin composite scaffold for bone defect repair in rabbits

The purpose is to study the in vivo bioactivity of this scaffold and verify its ability to simulate the characteristics of cancellous bone. Twenty-four adult New Zealand white rabbits were divided into three groups. Bone defects above the femoral condylar of both sides were created. A newly designed bioactive nanoparticle–gelatin composite scaffold was implanted to the experimental side, while the control side was left without implantation. The repair of bone defect was monitored by X-ray examination, gross observation, Micro-CT examination and histological observation of the area of bone defect 4, 8 and 12 weeks after surgery. There was void of new bone tissue in medullary cavity in the bone defect area of the control side. In the experimental side, the composite scaffold displayed excellent biodegradability, bioactivity and cyto-compatibility. With the time laps, new bone tissue grew from the edge to center as revealed by both Micro-CT image and staining biopsy, which complies with the “creeping substitution” process. The mechanical properties of the newly designed bioactive nanoparticle–gelatin composite scaffold and the 3-D structure of new bone tissue are comparable to the surrounding cancellous bones. This newly developed bioactive nanoparticle–gelatin composite scaffold possesses good biocompatibility and in vivo osteogenic capability for bone defect repair. It may be a promising artificial bone grafts.