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Biomimetic Scaffolds Loaded with Adipose-Derived Stem Cells and BMP-2 Induce Healing of Mandibular Defects

Objectives: Investigate the efficacy of biomimetic scaffolds, alone and in combination with osteogenic signaling factors and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), to heal a critical-sized segmental mandibular defect in a rat model. Study Design: Prospective study using an animal model. Methods: Adipose-derived stem cells were isolated and cultured from the inguinal fat of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-transgenic Lewis rats. Using 3D printing, biomimetic PLGA scaffolds were fabricated and impregnated with ASCs and/or bone morphogenic protein (BMP-2). Critical-sized 5-mm segmental mandibular defects were created in adult Lewis rats and implanted with 1) blank PLGA scaffolds, 2) PLGA scaffolds seeded with ASCs, 3) PLGA scaffolds with BMP, 4) PLGA scaffolds with BMP and ASCs. Animals were sacrificed at 12 weeks, and bone healing was evaluated using microCT analysis. Results: A total of 28 rats underwent creation of segmental mandibular defects with implantation of biomimetic scaffolds. MicroCT analysis demonstrated no bridging of the segmental bony defect in rats implanted with blank scaffolds (control). Rats implanted with scaffolds containing ASCs, BMP-2, and ASCs in combination with BMP-2 demonstrated healing of critical-sized segmental mandibular defects, as determined by microCT analysis. Conclusions: ASCs and BMP-2, alone and in combination, demonstrate the ability to heal critical sized mandibular defects in rats. This has implications for future translational research in oromandibular reconstruction.