Effect of Recombinant Human BMP-2 Combined with Synthetic Bone Graft on Osteocalcin and Alkaline Phosphatase Expression in a Rat Bone Defect Model

Abstract

Bone regeneration is a natural process; however, large bone defects can impair healing, necessitating interventions such as bone grafting. Autografts are the gold standard, but they have limitations. This study evaluates the effects of bone tissue engineering (BTE) using rh-BMP2 and synthetic bone grafts on bone healing, focusing on osteocalcin (OC) and BMP-2 as biomarkers of osteoblast activity. A randomized posttest-only control group design was employed. Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: synthetic bone graft, rh-BMP2, combined rh-BMP2 and synthetic graft, positive control (bone defect with no treatment), and negative control (no defect). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)  and OC levels were measured after four weeks. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 29.0. OC levels differed significantly among groups (p < 0.05), with the positive control group exhibiting higher levels than all treatment groups. No significant differences were observed between the negative control group and the two treatment groups, while a difference was noted with the third treatment group. Alkaline phosphatase levels showed no difference between the negative control and other groups; however, the positive control group was higher than two treatment groups (p<0.05). The positive control demonstrated greater osteoblastic activity, while the combination treatment was not superior. BTE with rh-BMP2 and synthetic bone grafts significantly enhances bone healing, making the combination more effective than either treatment alone. This method shows potential for treating large bone defects clinically.