Mechanical stimulation of autogenous growth factors and neo-vascularization after bony reconstruction of mandibular segmental defects in a goat model

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Peer Kämmerer
• Subject Area: Dentistry, Oral Surgery
• Term: from 2012 to 2013
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 221249147

Autogenous transfer of bone for reconstruction of continuity defects of the mandible as the gold standard still yields a substantial failure rate. The application of exogenous growth factors such as rhBMP-2 and VEGF, which is under current research, may lead to a beneficial result, mostly because of activation of mesenchymal stem cells. Moreover, mechanical stimulation of the bone, for example with extracorporeal shock waves (ESW) during the healing phase may affect the bone healing process in a positive way by interference with migration and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and promotion of neo-vascularization. In contrast to the application of external growth factors for the reconstruction of the mandible, mechanical stimulation has not been examined in the craniofacial area in animals bigger than rats nor in humans before. Though, the first results are promising and as ESW represents a biophysical stimuli and does not need the incorporation of medication with potential adverse effects, it could be a valuable alternative or additional technique. The crucial question of an extracorporal stimulation of bone growth in reconstruction of the mandible may open a new way for a better healing. Therefore, the objective of this research project is an evaluation of the possible acceleration of bone growth after partial mandibulectomy in an animal goat model. All animals will receive a ¿critical size¿ continuity resection of the left mandible with reconstruction with bicortical bone from the contralateral angle of the mandible. In group 1, no further procedures will be conducted. Group 2 will receive, next to the autogenous bone transfer, a low-dose mechanical stimulation via ESW. In group 3, the transplanted bone will be treated with a high-dose ESW-therapy. We hypothesize that the induction of various autogenous host-factors such as BMP-2 and VEGF by mechanical stimulation may lead to an increased bone growth with an improvement in blood supply.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Host: Professor Myron Spector, Ph.D.