Objectives
There is increasing application of bone morphogenetic proteins
(BMPs) owing to their role in promoting fracture healing and bone
fusion. However, an optimal delivery system has yet to be identified.
The aims of this study were to synthesise bioactive BMP-2, combine
it with a novel α-tricalcium phosphate/poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide)
(α-TCP/PLGA) nanocomposite and study its release from the composite.
Methods
BMP-2 was synthesised using an Escherichia coli expression
system and purified. In vitro bioactivity was confirmed
using C2C12 cells and an alkaline phosphatase assay. The modified
solution-evaporation method was used to fabricate α-TCP/PLGA
nanocomposite and this was characterised using X-ray diffraction
and scanning electron microscopy. Functionalisation
of α-TCP/PLGA nanocomposite by adsorption of BMP-2 was performed
and release of BMP-2 was characterised using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay (ELISA).
