In vitro and in vivo potential use evaluation of hybrid synthetic composite scaffolds for bone repair.

• Grant number: 18/05587-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: October 01, 2018
• End date: February 28, 2022
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Principal Investigator: Rodrigo Cardoso de Oliveira
• Grantee: Bruna Carolina Costa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru (FOB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Bauru , SP, Brazil

Abstract

In bone bioengineering research many efforts have been done in order to develop new strategies for bone repair and, in this scenario, research and development of hybrid synthetic composite scaffolds is a major challenge. In this research proposal, it is intended to produce new scaffolds based on the association of bone substitute biomaterials (carbonated hydroxyapatite, HACa), growth factors (platelet-rich fibrin, PRF) and adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs). Furthermore, it is also planned to perform in vitro and in vivo evaluations of the potential use of the developed specimens. For this, it will be used 20 male New Zeland White rabbits (body mass of 3.5-4.0 kg). ADSCs will be collected from the rabbit's inter-scapular region and isolated, expanded, propagated, characterized and finally, differentiated to osteoblasts. Moreover, blood collected from the rabbit central artery (10-15 mL) will be used to obtain the PRF. In vitro tests, such as, cell viability (MTT), Western blotting for osteogenic factors, alkaline phosphatase activity assays and mineralization, adhesion/ morphology assessments will be performed in order to preliminarily evaluate the scaffold potential and viability. For in vivo tests, 8 mm bilateral bone defects will be performed in on 20 rabbits' parietal bones, which posteriorly will be randomly filled using the experimental groups (developed scaffolds). After four weeks, the calvarias skull will be collected and the obtained cuts will be evaluated by micro tomography and histological and histomorphometric analyzes.