Repair of rabbit segmental radial defect by a compound of adipose-derived stem cells with the ink-jet all-core structure composite scaffold

Abstract

Objective To repair segmental radial defect by adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) combined with a porous wrapped-core structure composite scaffold composed of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/β-tricalciumphosphate (PLGA/β-TCP) skeleton ink-jet wrapped with Type I collagen. Methods 1.5 cm segmental radial defects were created in 36 rabbits, then the combination of ADSCs and ink-jet all-core structure composite scaffold (group A) and the combination of ADSCs and PLGA/β-TCP skeleton (group B) were transplanted into the untreated radial defect as blank control group (group C). 12, 24, 48 weeks after implantation, animals were sacrificed and the constructs were harvested and analyzed. Results Imaging, gross observation and histological examination showed that the bone defect in group A was completely repaired, which was significantly superior to the partial repair in group B and not in group C. In group A, synosteosis was formed between the two ends of the critical-size bone defect 12 weeks postoperation; bone integrity was almost finished and bone marrow started a trend of recanalization 24 weeks postoperation; bone defect repair was completely repaired and bone marrow was recanalized 48 weeks later. As compared with group C at 12, 24, and 48 h [(0.58±1.00), (0.58±1.00) and (0.58±1.00) points], Lane-Sandhu indicated that the new bone forming in group B [(1.22±0.59), (4.89±0.8), and (6.18±0.71) points was significantly increased (t=13.500, P<0.05); As compared with group B, the new bone forming in group A [(5.11±0.70), (8.31±0.48), and (12.98±0.60) points] was significantly increased (t=18.000, P<0.05). Conclusion The combination of ADSCs and ink-jet all-core structure composite scaffold exhibits a favorable osteogenesis, biocompatibility and biodegradability during the repair of autologous segmental radial defect model, which clearly demonstrates promise for the treatment of bone defects through tissue engineering. Key words: Ink-jet all-core structure composite scaffold; Adipose-derived stem cells; Tissue engineering; Bone repair