Perfusion in Vivo Bioreactor Promotes Regeneration of Vascularized Tissue-Engineered Bone

Abstract

Aim: This study improved the in vivo bioreactor (IVB) for bone regeneration by enhancing stem cell survival and promoting vascularized tissue-engineered bone. Methods: 12 New Zealand rabbits received β-TCP scaffolds with rabbit bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) implanted. Perfusion IVB with a perfusion electronic pump was compared with the control group using micro-CT, Microfil perfusion, histological staining and RT-PCR for gene expression. Results: Perfusion IVB demonstrated good biocompatibility, increased neoplastic bone tissue, neovascularization and upregulated osteogenic and angiogenesis-related genes in rabbits (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Perfusion IVB holds promise for bone regeneration and tissue engineering in orthopedics and maxillofacial surgery.