Promotion of peri-implant bone healing by systemically administered parathyroid hormone (1-34) and zoledronic acid adsorbed onto the implant surface

Astaxanthin prevents bone loss in osteoporotic rats with palmitic acid through suppressing oxidative stress

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to assess the role of Astaxanthin (ATX) in palmitic acid(PA) -induced bone loss in Ovariectomized(OVX) rats.

METHODS

In the OVX rat model, we observed that PA affects bone metabolism and accelerates bone loss. Additionally, treatment with ATX was able to suppress the deleterious effects of PA and a simultaneous decrease in serum MDA levels and an increase in SOD was observed.

RESULTS

In addition, rats treated with ATX were observed to have significantly increased bone mass and elevated activity of SIRT1 and SOD2 in bone tissue. When MC3T3-E1 and RAW264.7 cells induced osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation, the ATX intervention was able to significantly restore the restriction of osteogenic differentiation and the up-regulation of osteoclast differentiation with PA therapy. Furthermore, we confirm that PA damage to cells is caused by increased oxidative stress, and that ATX can target and modulate the activity of SIRT1 to regulate the levels of oxidative stress in cells.

CONCLUSION

Summarizing, ATX may inhibit PA-induced bone loss through its antioxidant properties via the SIRT1 signaling pathway.

Combination treatment with whole body vibration and simvastatin improves the early osseointegration in aged rats

Background

Current research has demonstrated that Simvastatin (SIM) and Whole Body Vibration (WBV) actively contributes to the repair of osteoporotic bones. However, there is still limited knowledge regarding the impact of this combined therapy on osseointegration in elderly individuals. Objective: The objective of this study was to verify the influence of WBV and SIM combination treatment on Titanium implants' fixation strength in aged rats.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats at 24 months old were utilized for this investigation. Titanium rods were surgically inserted into the distal femoral canal on their left side. Subsequently, all animals were randomly assigned to one of four groups: Control group; WBV group; SIM group; and WBV + SIM group. Each group received Saline, Whole Body Vibration, Simvastatin, or a combination of Whole Body Vibration plus Simvastatin treatment until they reached their natural death after 12 weeks. The bilateral femurs and serum samples from these rats were collected for evaluation purposes.

Results

Both WBV and SIM treatments exhibited an increase in bone mass, osseointegration, and push-out force compared to the Control group (all, P < 0.05). Additionally, levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory factors decreased with both treatments when compared to the Control group alone (all, P < 0.05). Notably, the WBV + SIM group displayed superior effects on new bone formation, biomechanical strength, BMP2 expression in bone tissue as well as SOD2 expression regulation related to bone repair genes when compared to other groups involved in this study (all, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that combining physiotherapy (WBV) with drug therapy (SIM) proves beneficial for enhancing implant fixation in aged rats.

Guanylate cyclase promotes osseointegration by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation in aged rats with iron overload

Aims

This study intended to investigate the effect of vericiguat (VIT) on titanium rod osseointegration in aged rats with iron overload, and also explore the role of VIT in osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation.

Methods

In this study, 60 rats were included in a titanium rod implantation model and underwent subsequent guanylate cyclase treatment. Imaging, histology, and biomechanics were used to evaluate the osseointegration of rats in each group. First, the impact of VIT on bone integration in aged rats with iron overload was investigated. Subsequently, VIT was employed to modulate the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells and RAW264.7 cells under conditions of iron overload.

Results

Utilizing an OVX rat model, we observed significant alterations in bone mass and osseointegration due to VIT administration in aged rats with iron overload. The observed effects were concomitant with reductions in bone metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation. To elucidate whether these effects are associated with osteoclast and osteoblast activity, we conducted in vitro experiments using MC3T3-E1 cells and RAW264.7 cells. Our findings indicate that iron accumulation suppressed the activity of MC3T3-E1 while enhancing RAW264.7 function. Furthermore, iron overload significantly decreased oxidative stress levels; however, these detrimental effects can be mitigated by VIT treatment.

Conclusion

Collectively, our data provide compelling evidence that VIT has the potential to reverse the deleterious consequences of iron overload on osseointegration and bone mass during ageing.

Smart Delivery of Biomolecules Interfering with Peri-Implant Repair in Osteoporotic Rats

Bisphosphonates are widely used for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis; however, they cause several long-term side effects, necessitating the investigation of local ways to improve osseointegration in compromised bone tissue. The purpose of this study was to evaluate peri-implant bone repair using implants functionalized with zoledronic acid alone (OVX ZOL group, n = 11), zoledronic acid + teriparatide (OVX ZOL + TERI group, n = 11), and zoledronic acid + ruterpy (OVX ZOL + TERPY group, n = 11) compared to the control group (OVX CONV, n = 11). Analyses included computer-assisted microtomography, qualitative histologic analysis, and real-time PCR analysis. Histologically, all functionalized surfaces improved peri-implant repair, with the OVX ZOL + TERI group standing out. Similar results were found in computerized microtomography analysis. In real-time PCR analysis, however, the OVX ZOL and OVX ZOL + TERPY groups showed better results for bone formation, with the OVX ZOL + TERPY group standing out, while there were no statistical differences between the OVX CONV and OVX ZOL + TERI groups for the genes studied at 28 postoperative days. Nevertheless, all functionalized groups showed a reduced rate of bone resorption. In short, all surface functionalization groups outperformed the control group, with overall better results for the OVX ZOL + TERI group.

Dental implant considerations in patients with systemic diseases: An updated comprehensive review

BACKGROUND

Various medical conditions and the drugs used to treat them have been shown to impede or complicate dental implant surgery. It is crucial to carefully monitor the medical status and potential post-operative complications of patients with systemic diseases, particularly elderly patients, to minimize the risk of health complications that may arise.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to review the existing evidence on the viability of dental implants in patients with systemic diseases and to provide practical recommendations to achieve the best possible results in the corresponding patient population.

METHODS

The information for our study was compiled using data from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases and searched separately for each systemic disease included in our work until October 2023. An additional manual search was also performed to increase the search sensitivity. Only English-language publications were included and assessed according to titles, abstracts and full texts.

RESULTS

In total, 6784 studies were found. After checking for duplicates and full-text availability, screening for the inclusion criteria and manually searching reference lists, 570 articles remained to be considered in this study.

CONCLUSION

In treating patients with systemic conditions, the cost-benefit analysis should consider the patient's quality of life and expected lifespan. The success of dental implants depends heavily on ensuring appropriate maintenance therapy, ideal oral hygiene standards, no smoking and avoiding other risk factors. Indications and contraindications for dental implants in cases of systemic diseases are yet to be more understood; broader and hardcore research needs to be done for a guideline foundation.

Pre-implantation teriparatide administration improves initial implant stability and accelerates the osseointegration process in osteoporotic rats

PURPOSE

Osteoporotic individuals who have dental implants usually require a prolonged healing time for osseointegration due to the shortage of bone mass and the lack of initial stability. Although studies have shown that intermittent teriparatide administration can promote osseointegration, there is little data to support the idea that pre-implantation administration is necessary and beneficial.

METHODS

Sixty-four titanium implants were placed in the bilateral proximal tibial metaphysis in 32 female SD rats. Bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) was used to induce osteoporosis. Four major groups (n = 8) were created: PRE (OVX + pre-implantation teriparatide administration), POST (OVX + post-implantation administration), OP (OVX + normal saline (NS)) and SHAM (sham rats + NS). Half of rats (n = 4) in each group were euthanized respectively at 4 weeks or 8 weeks after implantation surgery, and four major groups were divided into eight subgroups (PRE4 to SHAM8). Tibiae were collected for micro-CT morphometry, biomechanical test and undecalcified sections analysis.

RESULTS

Compared to OP group, rats in PRE and SHAM groups had a higher value of insertion torque (p < 0.05). The micro-CT analysis, biomechanical test, and histological data showed that peri-implant trabecular growth, implants fixation and bone-implant contact (BIC) were increased after 4 or 8 weeks of teriparatide treatment (p < 0.05). There was no statistically difference in those parameters between PRE4 and POST8 subgroups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In osteoporotic rats, post-implantation administration of teriparatide enhanced peri-implant bone formation and this effect was stronger as the medicine was taken longer. Pre-implantation teriparatide treatment improved primary implant stability and accelerated the osseointegration process.

Bisphosphonate-incorporated coatings for orthopedic implants functionalization

Bisphosphonates (BPs), the stable analogs of pyrophosphate, are well-known inhibitors of osteoclastogenesis to prevent osteoporotic bone loss and improve implant osseointegration in patients suffering from osteoporosis. Compared to systemic administration, BPs-incorporated coatings enable the direct delivery of BPs to the local area, which will precisely enhance osseointegration and bone repair without the systemic side effects. However, an elaborate and comprehensive review of BP coatings of implants is lacking. Herein, the cellular level (e.g., osteoclasts, osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclast precursors, and bone mesenchymal stem cells) and molecular biological regulatory mechanism of BPs in regulating bone homeostasis are overviewed systematically. Moreover, the currently available methods (e.g., chemical reaction, porous carriers, and organic material films) of BP coatings construction are outlined and summarized in detail. As one of the key directions, the latest advances of BP-coated implants to enhance bone repair and osseointegration in basic experiments and clinical trials are presented and critically evaluated. Finally, the challenges and prospects of BP coatings are also purposed, and it will open a new chapter in clinical translation for BP-coated implants.

The effect of drugs on implant osseointegration- A narrative review

OBJECTIVE

This narrative review aims to investigate the effects of drugs on implant osseointegration, analyzing their potential positive or negative impact on the direct structural and functional connection between bone and load-carrying implants.

BACKGROUND

The review seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of osseointegration, which refers to the successful integration of an implant with living bone, resulting in no progressive relative movement between them. Exploring the effects of drugs on implant osseointegration is crucial for optimizing outcomes and enhancing patient care in orthopedic implant procedures.

METHODS

Relevant studies on the effects of drugs on implant osseointegration were identified through a literature search. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar, were utilized, employing appropriate keywords and MeSH terms related to osseointegration, implants, and drug interventions. The search was limited to English studies.

DISCUSSION

This overview presents a detailed analysis of the effects of drugs on implant osseointegration. It explores drugs such as bisphosphonates, teriparatide, statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, beta-blockers, nitrites, and thiazide diuretics as promoters of osseointegration. Conversely, loop diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, cyclosporine A, cisplatin, methotrexate, antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antiepileptics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and anticoagulants are discussed as inhibitors of the process. The role of vitamin D3 remains uncertain. The complex relationship between drugs and the biology of implant osseointegration is emphasized, underscoring the need for further in vitro and in vivo studies to validate their effects CONCLUSION: This narrative review contributes to the literature by providing an overview of the effects of drugs on implant osseointegration. It highlights the complexity of the subject and emphasizes the necessity for more extensive and sophisticated studies in the future. Based on the synthesis of the reviewed literature, certain drugs, such as bisphosphonates and teriparatide, show potential for promoting implant osseointegration, while others, including loop diuretics and certain antibiotics, may impede the process. However, additional research is required to solidify these conclusions and effectively inform clinical practice.

Co-modified 3D printed β-tricalcium phosphate with magnesium and selenium promotes bone defect regeneration in ovariectomized rat

Magnesium (Mg) and Selenium (Se) are essential elements for bone health and have been studied extensively for its powerful osteogenesis and promoting bone regeneration. The purpose was to observe whether Co-modified 3D-printed β-tricalcium phosphate with Mg and Se could promote bone defect regeneration in an ovariectomized(OVX) rat model. The MC3T3-E1 cells were co-cultured with the leachate of β-TCP, Mg-TCP, and Mg/Se-TCP and induced to osteogenesis, and the cell viability, ROS, and osteogenic activity were observed by Cell Count Kit-8(CCK-8), fluorescent probe 2', 7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate, Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, Alizarin Red(RES) staining, western blotting(WB), and immunofluorescence. Then the β-TCP, Mg-TCP, and Mg/Se-TCP were implanted into the femoral epiphysis bone defect model of OVX rats for 12 weeks. Micro-CT and histology analysis were used to observe the therapeutic effect. In vitro results show that the cell mineralization and osteogenic activity of the Mg/Se-TCP group is significantly higher than the β-TCP group and Mg-TCP group. Protein expressions such as FOxO1, SIRT1, SOD2, Runx-2, Cola1a, and OC of the Mg/Se-TCP group are significantly higher than the Con group and the β-TCP group. The results of intracellular ROS and SIRT1 and SOD2 immunofluorescence showed that Mg/Se-TCP can restore the oxidative stress balance of osteoblasts. Micro-CT and histology analysis showed that treatment with Mg/Se-TCP showed the largest amount of bone tissue in the defect area (p < 0.05), and exhibited lower values of residual biological material (p < 0.05), compared to that of the β-TCP group and Mg-TCP group. Our research results confirm that Mg/Se-TCP can improve the activity and function of osteoblasts and enhance bone regeneration mediated by reducing intracellular ROS in OVX rat models. The release of Mg and Se during the degradation of Mg/Se-TCP can improve the local bone repair ability. At the same time, it can also inhibit cell ROS, and ultimately greatly promote local bone repair.

Histological and histomorphometric aspects of continual intermittent parathyroid hormone administration on osseointegration in osteoporosis rabbit model

In implant treatment, primary stability and osseointegration are improved by continual intermittent administration of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in patients with osteoporosis. However, the histological and histomorphometric aspects are not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the histological and histomorphometric effects of intermittent PTH administration on osseointegration in a glucocorticoid-induced osteoporotic rabbit model. Fifteen female New Zealand rabbits were prepared for the osteoporosis model with ovariectomy and glucocorticoid administration. After 1 week, five rabbits were intermittently administered PTH for 8 weeks until the end point (PTHa group) and five for 4 weeks until implant placement (PTHb group). The remaining rabbits were intermittently administered saline for 8 weeks until the end point (Control group). Dental implants were inserted into the femoral epiphyses 11 weeks after ovariectomy. After 4 weeks, the maximum removal torque (RT) of the placed implant and bone implant contact (BIC) ratio were evaluated. In addition micro-computed tomography and histomorphometric analyses were performed. The RT and BIC values were significantly higher in the PTHa group compared with those of the PTHb and Control groups (p< 0.05). Furthermore, the bone mineral densities and Hounsfield units were significantly higher in the PTHa group than those in the PTHb and Control groups. Histologic and histomorphometric measurements revealed that continuous administration of PTH improved bone density and bone formation around the implant placement site, as well as systemic bone formation. Therefore, favorable implant stability was achieved under osteoporosis.

Silibinin Can Promote Bone Regeneration of Selenium Hydrogel by Reducing the Oxidative Stress Pathway in Ovariectomized Rats

Osteoporosis-related bone defects are a major public health concern. Considering poor effects of a singular pharmacological treatment, many have sought combination therapies, including local treatment combined with systemic intervention. Based on recent evidence that selenium and silibinin increase bone formation and bone mineral density, it is hypothesized that systemic administration with silibinin plus local treatment with selenium may have an additive effect on bone regeneration in an OVX rat model with bone defects. To verify this hypothesis, 3-month-old ovariectomized Sprague- Dawley rats (n = 10/gp) were intraperitoneally with a dose of 50 mg/kg silibinin with selenium hydrogel scaffolds implanted into femoral metaphysis bone defect. Moreover, the MC3T3-E1 cells were co-cultured with selenium and silibinin, and observed any change of cell viability, ROS, and osteogenic activity. Experiment results show that the cell mineralization and osteogenic activity of silibinin plus selenium (SSe) group is enormously higher than the control (Con) group and selenium (Se) group, while ROS appears to be immensely reduced. Osteogenic protein expressions such as SIRT1, SOD2, RUNX-2 and OC of SSe group are significantly higher than Con group and Se group. Micro-CT and Histological analysis evaluation display that group SSe, compared with Con group and Se group, presents the strongest effect on bone regeneration, bone mineralization and higher expression of SIRT1 and SOD2. RT-qPCR analysis indicates that SSe group manifests increased SIRT1, SOD1, SOD2 and CAT than the Con group and Se group (p < 0.05). Our current study demonstrates that systemic administration with SIL plus local treatment with Se is a scheme for rapid repair of femoral condylar defects, and these effects may be achieved via reducing the oxidative stress pathway.

Intermittent parathyroid hormone increases stability and improves osseointegration of initially unstable implants

Aims

To develop an early implant instability murine model and explore the use of intermittent parathyroid hormone (iPTH) treatment for initially unstable implants.

Methods

3D-printed titanium implants were inserted into an oversized drill-hole in the tibiae of C57Bl/6 mice (n = 54). After implantation, the mice were randomly divided into three treatment groups (phosphate buffered saline (PBS)-control, iPTH, and delayed iPTH). Radiological analysis, micro-CT (µCT), and biomechanical pull-out testing were performed to assess implant loosening, bone formation, and osseointegration. Peri-implant tissue formation and cellular composition were evaluated by histology.

Results

iPTH reduced radiological signs of loosening and led to an increase in peri-implant bone formation over the course of four weeks (timepoints: one week, two weeks, and four weeks). Observational histological analysis shows that iPTH prohibits the progression of fibrosis. Delaying iPTH treatment until after onset of peri-implant fibrosis still resulted in enhanced osseointegration and implant stability. Despite initial instability, iPTH increased the mean pull-out strength of the implant from 8.41 N (SD 8.15) in the PBS-control group to 21.49 N (SD 10.45) and 23.68 N (SD 8.99) in the immediate and delayed iPTH groups, respectively. Immediate and delayed iPTH increased mean peri-implant bone volume fraction (BV/TV) to 0.46 (SD 0.07) and 0.34 (SD 0.10), respectively, compared to PBS-control mean BV/TV of 0.23 (SD 0.03) (PBS-control vs immediate iPTH, p < 0.001; PBS-control vs delayed iPTH, p = 0.048; immediate iPTH vs delayed iPTH, p = 0.111).

Conclusion

iPTH treatment mediated successful osseointegration and increased bone mechanical strength, despite initial implant instability. Clinically, this suggests that initially unstable implants may be osseointegrated with iPTH treatment.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(5):260–269.

Local treatment with Sema3a could promote the osseointegration of hydroxyapatite coated titanium rod in diabetic rats

Recently, semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) has been identified as a critical gene for osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and increases osteoblastic bone formation. However, in current research studies, there is a lack of focus on whether Sema3a can affect the osseointegration of titanium rods in diabetes and through what biological mechanisms. Therefore, the present work was aimed to evaluate the effect of local administration with Sema3A on hydroxyapatite coated titanium rod osseointegration in diabetic rat model and preliminary exploration of possible mechanisms. The MC3T3-E1 cells were co-cultured with Sema3A and high glucose and induced to osteogenesis, and the cell viability, osteogenic activity was observed by Cell Counting Kit-8(CCK-8), Alkaline Phosphatase staining, Alizarin Red Staining, and Western Blot. In vitro experiments, CCK-8, ALP, and ARS staining results show that the mineralization and osteogenic activity of MC3T3-E1increased significantly after intervention by Sema3A, as well as a higher levels of protein expressions including Runt-Related Transcription Factor 2, silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog-1(SIRT1), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2). In vivo experiment, a better stability and osseointegration of the titanium rod were observed after treatment with Sema3A, as well as a higher SOD1, SOD2, CAT, and SIRT1 gene expression. The present study indicates that local treatment with Sema3A was associated with increased osseointegration of titanium rod by reducing the oxidative stress of osteoblasts and enhancing the function of osteoblasts in a diabetic rat.

Additive Effect of Parathyroid Hormone and Zoledronate Acid on Prevention Particle Wears-Induced Implant Loosening by Promoting Periprosthetic Bone Architecture and Strength in an Ovariectomized Rat Model

Implant-generated particle wears are considered as the major cause for the induction of implant loosening, which is more susceptible to patients with osteoporosis. Monotherapy with parathyroid hormone (PTH) or zoledronate acid (ZOL) has been proven efficient for preventing early-stage periprosthetic osteolysis, while the combination therapy with PTH and ZOL has exerted beneficial effects on the treatment of posterior lumbar vertebral fusion and disuse osteopenia. However, PTH and ZOL still have not been licensed for the treatment of implant loosening to date clinically. In this study, we have explored the effect of single or combined administration with PTH and ZOL on implant loosening in a rat model of osteoporosis. After 12 weeks of ovariectomized surgery, a femoral particle-induced periprosthetic osteolysis model was established. Vehicle, PTH (5 days per week), ZOL (100 mg/kg per week), or combination therapy was utilized for another 6 weeks before sacrifice, followed by micro-CT, histology, mechanical testing, and bone turnover examination. PTH monotherapy or combined PTH with ZOL exerted a protective effect on maintaining implant stability by elevating periprosthetic bone mass and inhibiting pseudomembrane formation. Moreover, an additive effect was observed when combining PTH with ZOL, resulting in better fixation strength, higher periprosthetic bone mass, and less pseudomembrane than PTH monotherapy. Taken together, our results suggested that a combination therapy of PTH and ZOL might be a promising approach for the intervention of early-stage implant loosening in patients with osteoporosis.

Hydrogel contained valproic acid accelerates bone-defect repair via activating Notch signaling pathway in ovariectomized rats

The purpose was to observe whether valproic acid (VPA) has a positive effect on bone-defect repair via activating the Notch signaling pathway in an OVX rat model. The MC3T3-E1 cells were cocultured with VPA and induced to osteogenesis, and the osteogenic activity was observed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, Alizarin Red (RES) staining and Western blotting (WB). Then the hydrogel-containing VPA was implanted into the femoral epiphysis bone-defect model of ovariectomized (OVX) rats for 12 weeks. Micro-CT, biomechanical testing, histology, immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR, and WB analysis were used to observe the therapeutic effect and explore the possible mechanism. ALP and ARS staining and WB results show that the cell mineralization, osteogenic activity, and protein expression of ALP, OPN, RUNX-2, OC, Notch 1, HES1, HEY1, and JAG1 of VPA group is significantly higher than the control group. Micro-CT, biomechanical testing, histology, immunofluorescence, and RT-qPCR evaluation show that group VPA presented the stronger effect on bone strength, bone regeneration, bone mineralization, higher expression of VEGFA, BMP-2, ALP, OPN, RUNX-2, OC, Notch 1, HES1, HEY1, and JAG1 of VPA when compared with OVX group. Our current study demonstrated that local treatment with VPA could stimulate repair of femoral condyle defects, and these effects may be achieved by activating Notch signaling pathway and acceleration of blood vessel and bone formation.

Parathyroid Hormone 1 Receptor Signaling in Dental Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Basic and Clinical Implications

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) are two peptides that regulate mineral ion homeostasis, skeletal development, and bone turnover by activating parathyroid hormone 1 receptor (PTH1R). PTH1R signaling is of profound clinical interest for its potential to stimulate bone formation and regeneration. Recent pre-clinical animal studies and clinical trials have investigated the effects of PTH and PTHrP analogs in the orofacial region. Dental mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are targets of PTH1R signaling and have long been known as major factors in tissue repair and regeneration. Previous studies have begun to reveal important roles for PTH1R signaling in modulating the proliferation and differentiation of MSCs in the orofacial region. A better understanding of the molecular networks and underlying mechanisms for modulating MSCs in dental diseases will pave the way for the therapeutic applications of PTH and PTHrP in the future. Here we review recent studies involving dental MSCs, focusing on relationships with PTH1R. We also summarize recent basic and clinical observations of PTH and PTHrP treatment to help understand their use in MSCs-based dental and bone regeneration.

Simvastatin reverses the harmful effects of high fat diet on titanium rod osseointegration in ovariectomized rats

INTRODUCTION

The objectives of the present study were to determine whether simvastatin (SIM) could reverse the harmful effects on titanium rod osseointegration in ovariectomized rats fed high-fat diet (HFD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ovariectomized female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated to three groups and received SIM treatment plus HFD for 12 weeks. We then evaluated the microstructure parameters, histological parameters, biomechanical parameters, bone turnover, and blood lipid level.

RESULTS

After 12 weeks of treatment, SIM can significantly improve bone formation around the titanium rod and osseointegration including higher values of maximum push-out force, bone area ratio (BAR), bone-to-implant contact (BIC), bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume (BV/TV), trabecular number (Tb.N), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), mean connective density (Conn.D) when compared with the HFD group. In addition, system administration of SIM showed positive effects on collagen type 1 cross-linked C-telopeptide (CTX-1), procollagen I N-terminal propeptide (PINP), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Compared with the HFD group, lower values of CTX-1, P1NP, TC, TGL and LDL were observed in the SIM+HFD group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed that HFD may have an adverse effect on osseointegration in osteoporotic conditions, and the harmful effect of HFD on osseointegration could be reversed by SIM.

Local administration with tauroursodeoxycholic acid could improve osseointegration of hydroxyapatite-coated titanium implants in ovariectomized rats

Despite advances in the pathogenesis of Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) on bone, the understanding of the effects and mechanisms of bone osseointegration in TUDCA-associated Hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated titanium implants remains poor. Therefore, the present work was aimed to evaluate the effect of local administration with TUDCA on HA-coated titanium implants osseointegration in ovariectomized(OVX) rats and further investigation of the possible mechanism. Twelve weeks after bilateral ovariectomy, all animals were randomly divided into three groups: sham operation(Sham) group, OVX group and TUDCA group, and all the rats from Sham group and OVX group received HA implants and animals belonging to group TUDCA received TUDCA-HA implants until death at 12 weeks. The bilateral femurs of rats were harvested for evaluation. TUDCA increased new bone formation around the surface of titanium rods and push-out force other than group OVX. Histology, Micro-CT and biochemical analysis results showed systemic TUDCA showed positive effects than OVX group on bone formation in osteopenic rats, with beneficial effect on via activation OPG/RANKL pathway and BMP-2/Smad1 pathway and microarchitecture as well as by reducing protein expression of TNF-α and IFN-γ. The present study suggests that local use of TUDCA may bring benefits to the osseointegration of HA-coated titanium implants in patients with osteoporosis, and this effect may be related to the inhibition of inflammatory reaction and promotion of osteogenesis.

Intermittent administration sodium valproate has a protective effect on bone health in ovariectomized rats

The present work was aimed to evaluate the effect of different administration modes of sodium valproate (VPA) on bone strength, bone mass and bone mineral density in ovariectomized (OVX) rats and further investigation of the possible mechanism. 60 female SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: Sham group (Sham, n = 15), OVX group (OVX, n = 15), OVX rats received intermittent VPA treatment group (IVPA, n = 15) and OVX rats received daily VPA treatment group (EVPA, n = 15). After 12 weeks of treatment, the rats were sacrificed, and serum and femur samples were harvested. DEXA, Micro-CT, history, biomechanical testing, biochemical index and western blot analysis were used to observe the therapeutic effect and explore the possible mechanism. Micro-CT and DEXA analysis of bones revealed better BMD and higher BV/TV, Tb. Th, Tb. N, Conn. D and lower Tb. Sp at femoral metaphysis evaluated in IVPA when compared with OVX and EVPA group (P < 0.05). Histological, fluorescent analysis and biological strength revealed more trabecular bone and higher relative mineral apposition rate, maximal load, elastic modulus and energy at break with evaluated in IVPA when compared with OVX and EVPA group (P < 0.05). The levels of P1NP, estrogen, CTX, TRAP-5b and RANKL of the IVPA group showed a significant increase when compared with the OVX and EVPA group (P < 0.05). We confirm adverse effects on protein expressions including Notch1, Jagged1, HEY1, Wnt 1, β-catenin and RUNX2 following daily VPA treatment in OVX female rats. Our current study demonstrated that intermittent administration of sodium valproate has a protective effect on bone health in OVX rats and these effects may be achieved by activating Notch/Wnt/β-catenin/RUNX2 signal axis.

Osseointegration Pharmacology: A Systematic Mapping Using Artificial Intelligence

Clinical performance of osseointegrated implants could be compromised by the medications taken by patients. The effect of a specific medication on osseointegration can be easily investigated using traditional systematic reviews. However, assessment of all known medications requires the use of evidence mapping methods. These methods allow assessment of complex questions, but they are very resource intensive when done manually. The objective of this study was to develop a machine learning algorithm to automatically map the literature assessing the effect of medications on osseointegration. Datasets of articles classified manually were used to train a machine-learning algorithm based on Support Vector Machines. The algorithm was then validated and used to screen 599,604 articles identified with an extremely sensitive search strategy. The algorithm included 281 relevant articles that described the effect of 31 different drugs on osseointegration. This approach achieved an accuracy of 95%, and compared to manual screening, it reduced the workload by 93%. The systematic mapping revealed that the treatment outcomes of osseointegrated medical devices could be influenced by drugs affecting homeostasis, inflammation, cell proliferation and bone remodeling. The effect of all known medications on the performance of osseointegrated medical devices can be assessed using evidence mappings executed with highly accurate machine learning algorithms.

Parathyroid hormone (1-34) can reverse the negative effect of valproic acid on the osseointegration of titanium rods in ovariectomized rats

Objective

The present work was aimed to evaluate the effect of valproic acid (VPA)，Parathyroid hormone (1–34) (PTH)+VPA on Ti rods osseointegration in ovariectomized rats and further investigation of the possible mechanism.

Methods

The MC3T3-E1 cells were co-cultured with VPA，PTH ​+ ​VPA and induced to osteogenesis, and the cell viability，mineralization ability were observed by MTT and ALP staining，Alizarin Red staining and Western blotting. Twelve weeks after bilateral ovariectomy, all animals were randomly divided into four groups: group OVX and VPA，PTH ​+ ​VPA, and all the rats received Ti implants and animals belong to group VPA，PTH ​+ ​VPA received valproic acid (300 ​mg/day), valproic acid (300 ​mg/day) plus Parathyroid hormone (1–34) every 3 days (60 ​μg/kg), respectively, treatment until death at 12 weeks. Micro-CT, histology, biomechanical testing, bone metabolism index and Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis were used to observe the therapeutic effect and explore the possible mechanism.

Results

Results shown that VPA decreased new bone formation around the surface of titanium rods and push-out force other than group OVX. Histology, Micro-CT and biochemical analysis results showed combined application of systemic VPA showed harmful effects than OVX group on bone formation in osteopenia rats, with the worse effects on CTX-1, P1NP and microarchitecture as well as biomechanical parameters by down-regulated gene expression of Runx2, OCN, Smad1, BMP-2 and OPG, while up-regulated RANKL. However, after PTH treatment, the above indicators were significantly improved.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that systemic use of VPA may bring harm to the stability of titanium implants in osteoporosis, PTH can reverse the negative effect of VPA on the osseointegration of titanium rods in ovariectomized rats.

Translational potential of this article

According to our research, when patients with epilepsy have osteoporotic fractures, after joint replacement or internal fixation, continue to use sodium valproate for anti-epileptic therapy, the possibility of postoperative loosening increases, again on the basis of It can be reversed with the anti-osteoporosis drug parathyroid hormone (1-34).

Synergistic use of biomaterials and licensed therapeutics to manipulate bone remodelling and promote non-union fracture repair

Disrupted bone metabolism can lead to delayed fracture healing or non-union, often requiring intervention to correct. Although the current clinical gold standard bone graft implants and commercial bone graft substitutes are effective, they possess inherent drawbacks and are limited in their therapeutic capacity for delayed union and non-union repair. Research into advanced biomaterials and therapeutic biomolecules has shown great potential for driving bone regeneration, although few have achieved commercial success or clinical translation. There are a number of therapeutics, which influence bone remodelling, currently licensed for clinical use. Providing an alternative local delivery context for these therapies, can enhance their efficacy and is an emerging trend in bone regenerative therapeutic strategies. This review aims to provide an overview of how biomaterial design has advanced from currently available commercial bone graft substitutes to accommodate previously licensed therapeutics that target local bone restoration and healing in a synergistic manner, and the challenges faced in progressing this research towards clinical reality.

Simvastatin can enhance the osseointegration of titanium rods in ovariectomized rats maintenance treatment with valproic acid

The present work was aimed to evaluate the effect of valproic acid(VPA), simvastatin (SIM)+VPA on Ti(titanium) rods osseointegration in ovariectomized(OVX) rats and further investigation of the possible mechanism. The MC3T3-E1 cells were co-cultured with VPA, SIM + VPA and induced to osteogenesis, and the cell viability, mineralization ability were observed by MTT and ALP staining, Alizarin Red staining and Western blotting. Twelve weeks after bilateral ovariectomy, all animals were randomly divided into three groups: group OVX and VPA, SIM + VPA, and all the rats received Ti implants and animals belong to group VPA, SIM + VPA received valproic acid(300 mg/kg/day), valproic acid(300 mg/kg/day) plus SIM (25 mg/kg/day), respectively, treatment until death at 12 weeks. Micro-CT, histology, biomechanical testing, bone metabolism index and Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis were used to observe the therapeutic effect and explore the possible mechanism. Results shown that VPA decreased new bone formation around the surface of titanium rods and push-out force other than group OVX. Histology, Micro-CT and biochemical analysis results showed combined application of systemic VPA showed harmful effects than OVX group on bone formation in osteopenic rats, with the worse effects on CTX-1, P1NP and microarchitecture as well as biomechanical parameters by down-regulated gene expression of Runx2, OCN, Smad1, BMP-2 and OPG, while up-regulated RANKL. However, after SIM treatment, the above indicators were significantly improved. The present study suggests that systemic use of VPA may bring harm to the stability of titanium implants in osteoporosis, SIM can reverse the negative effect of VPA on the osseointegration of titanium rods in ovariectomized rats.

Proteins, peptides and peptidomimetics as active agents in implant surface functionalization

The recent impact of implants on improving the human life quality has been enormous. During the past two decades we witnessed major advancements in both material and structural development of implants. They were driven mainly by the increasing patients' demand and the need to address the major issues that come along with the initially underestimated complexity of the bone-implant interface. While both, the materials and design of implants reached a certain, balanced state, recent years brought a shift in focus towards the bone-implant interface as the weakest link in the increasing implant long-term usability. As a result, several approaches were developed. They aimed at influencing and enhancing the implant osseointegration and its proper behavior when under load and stress. With this review, we would like to discuss the recent advancements in the field of implant surface modifications, emphasizing the importance of chemical methods, focusing on proteins, peptides and peptidomimetics as promising agents for titanium surface coatings.

Locally administrated single-dose teriparatide affects critical-size rabbit calvarial defects: A histological, histomorphometric and micro-CT study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of teriparatide (PTH 1-34, rhPTH) on a rabbit defect model with local xenogen grafts histomorphometrically and radiologically.

METHODS

For this purpose, two 10 mm diameter critical-size defects were created in the calvaria of 16 rabbits. In the control group, the defect area was filled with a xenogen graft, while in the teriparatide group (PTH 1-34), a xenogen graft combination with 20 mcg teriparatide was used. For both 4 - week and 8 - week study groups, new bone, residual graft, and soft tissue areas were evaluated as well as bone volume histomorphometrically and radiologically.

RESULTS

Histomorphometrically, there was a significant difference in new bone area values at the 8th week (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the 4 - week values (p > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups at both 4 and 8 weeks (p > 0.05). In the radiologically measured total bone volume values, PTH1-34 group values were found to be significantly higher for both 4 - and 8 - weeks values compared to the control groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In this study, rhPTH, which is used locally in defect areas to be repaired with bone grafts, increases both new bone volume and total bone volume.

Melatonin improves the osseointegration of hydroxyapatite-coated titanium implants in senile female rats

The aim of this study was to confirm the effect of the systemic administration of melatonin on hydroxyapatite-coated titanium (HA-Ti) implants in senile osteopenic rats. For this study 24-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were used. The animals were randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a melatonin group and the bilateral femurs of all the rats received HA-Ti implants. Animals in the melatonin group received treatment with melatonin (30 mg/kg day). After a 12-week healing period, rats in the melatonin group revealed improved osseointegration compared to the control group, with the bone area ratio (BAR) and bone to implant contact (BIC) increased by 1.87-fold and 1.65-fold in histomorphometry, the quantitative results of implant osseointegration and peri-implant trabeculae, such as a higher bone volume per total volume (BV/TV), trabecular number (Tb.N), the mean connective density (Conn.D), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), and a lower trabecular spacing (Tb.Sp) in micro-computed tomography (CT) evaluation and the maximum push-out force by 1.75-fold in push out tests. Additionally, compared with the control group, melatonin could significantly up-regulate the expression of the runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteocalcin (OC) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) genes and down-regulate the expression of the RANKL gene. These findings suggest that systemic administration with melatonin is useful to improve the fixation of HA-coated implants even in osteopenic rats through promoting Runx2, OC and OPG gene expression and inhibiting RANKL gene expression.

Bone Regeneration of Canine Peri-implant Defects Using Cell Sheets of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Platelet-Rich Fibrin Membranes

PURPOSE

Insufficient bone volume compromises the success rate and osseointegration of immediate implantation. The objective of the present study was to engineer bone tissue by using adipose-derived stem cell (ASC) sheets and autologous platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to enhance new bone formation and osseointegration around dental implants.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The proliferation and osteogenic potential of ASCs treated with autologous PRF were evaluated with CCK-8 assays, alkaline phosphatase staining, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. A 3-wall bone defect around each immediate implant was generated in the mandible and randomly treated with ASC sheets plus PRF (group A), ASC sheets only (group B), PRF only (group C), or no treatment (group D). Micro-computed tomography, biomechanical tests, fluorescent bone labeling, and histologic assessments were performed to evaluate bone regeneration capacity.

RESULTS

The proliferation and osteogenic potential of canine ASCs were markedly enhanced by PRF. Group A exhibited considerably more new bone formation and re-osseointegration (41.17 ± 1.44 and 55.06 ± 0.06%, respectively) than did the other 3 groups. Fluorescent labeling showed that the most rapid bone remodeling activity occurred in group A (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that sheets of ASC combined with autologous PRF could be a promising tissue-engineering strategy for bone formation in immediate implantation.

Effects of combined human parathyroid hormone (1-34) and menaquinone-4 treatment on the interface of hydroxyapatite-coated titanium implants in the femur of osteoporotic rats

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of human parathyroid hormone (1-34) (PTH_1-34; PTH) plus menaquinone-4 (vitamin K₂; MK) on the osseous integration of hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated implants in osteoporotic rats. Ovariectomized female Sprague-Dawley rats were used for the study. Twelve weeks after bilateral ovariectomy, HA-coated titanium implants were inserted bilaterally in the femoral medullary canal of the remaining 40 ovariectomized rats. All animals were then randomly assigned to four groups: Control, MK, PTH and PTH + MK. The rats from groups MK, PTH and PTH + MK received vitamin K₂ (30 mg/kg/day), PTH_1-34 (60 μg/kg, three times a week), or both for 12 weeks. Thereafter, serum levels of γ-carboxylated osteocalcin (Gla-OC) were quantitated by ELISA and the bilateral femurs of rats were harvested for evaluation. The combination of PTH and MK clearly increased the serum levels of Gla-OC (a specific marker for bone formation) compared to PTH or MK alone. The results of our study indicated that all treated groups had increased new bone formation around the surface of implants and increased push-out force compared to Control. In addition, PTH + MK treatment showed the strongest effects in histological, micro-computed tomography and biomechanical tests. In summary, our results confirm that treatment with PTH_1-34 and MK together may have a therapeutic advantage over PTH or MK monotherapy on bone healing around HA-coated implants in osteoporotic rats.

Antiosteoporotic Drugs to Promote Bone Regeneration Related to Titanium Implants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

IMPACT STATEMENT

This meta-analysis was to investigate literature on the administration of antiosteoporotic drugs as an effective adjunct therapy for implant osseointegration using in vivo animal models.

Early effects of parathyroid hormone on vascularized bone regeneration and implant osseointegration in aged rats

The decreased bone mass and impaired osteogenesis capacities that occur with aging may influence the outcome of dental implants. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) (1-34) is an anabolic agent for the treatment of osteoporosis. However, little is known about its effects and mechanisms on vascularized bone regeneration and implant osseointegration in aging. In current study, we adopted both in vivo and in vitro approaches to explore the mechanisms of early actions of PTH (1-34) on the angiogenic and osteogenic microenvironment to enhance implant osseointegration in aged rats. Daily subcutaneous injections of 30 μg/kg PTH (1-34) were given to female rats aged 20 months beginning on next day of implantation and lasting for 5 weeks. Radiological and histological analysis confirmed that PTH (1-34) improved new bone formation, angiogenesis and implant osseointegration in aged rats in the early stage. The osteogenic potential of aged bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) was enhanced, while their adipogenesis capacity was attenuated. Furthermore, PTH (1-34) was shown to promote angiogenesis directly via endothelial cell migration and blood vessel formation in vitro. Meanwhile, PTH (1-34) stimulated more osteoclasts participation in bone remodeling by secreting angiogenic and osteogenic growth factors to induce early vascularization and stimulate the migration or differentiation of BMSCs indirectly. Together, these results demonstrate mechanistic insight into how PTH (1-34) regulates the angiogenic and osteogenic microenvironment to result in more active bone remodeling and new bone formation, making it an excellent potential therapeutic agent for rapid vascularized bone regeneration and implant osseointegration in the aged population.

Anabolic agents: what is beyond osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mass, which leads to reduced bone strength and an increased risk of fractures. Anabolic agents have been shown to improve bone mass and decrease fracture risk in osteoporosis patients by directly stimulating osteoblasts to produce new bone. Currently, two anabolic agents are available in the USA: recombinantly produced teriparatide (TPTD), which is the fully active (1-34) amino active sequence of human parathyroid hormone (PTH), and abaloparatide (APTD), a synthetic analog of parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP). At present, both agents are approved only for treatment of patients with osteoporosis at high risk of fracture. Nonetheless, their anabolic properties have led to off-label application in additional settings which include spine fusion, osteonecrosis of the jaw, arthroplasty, and fracture healing. In this article, we summarize available scientific literature regarding the efficacy, effectiveness, and safety of TPTD in these off-label settings.

Sophocarpine attenuates wear particle-induced implant loosening by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption via suppression of the NF-κB signalling pathway in a rat model

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Aseptic prosthesis loosening, caused by wear particles, is one of the most common causes of arthroplasty failure. Extensive and over-activated osteoclast formation and physiological functioning are regarded as the mechanism of prosthesis loosening. Therapeutic modalities based on inhibiting osteoclast formation and bone resorption have been confirmed to be an effective way of preventing aseptic prosthesis loosening. In this study, we have investigated the effects of sophocarpine (SPC, derived from Sophora flavescens) on preventing implant loosening and further explored the underlying mechanisms.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The effects of SPC in inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption were evaluated in osteoclast formation, induced in vitro by the receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL). A rat femoral particle-induced peri-implant osteolysis model was established. Subsequently, micro-CT, histology, mechanical testing and bone turnover were used to assess the effects of SPC in preventing implant loosening.

KEY RESULTS

In vitro, we found that SPC suppressed osteoclast formation, bone resorption, F-actin ring formation and osteoclast-associated gene expression by inhibiting NF-κB signalling, specifically by targeting IκB kinases. Our in vivo study showed that SPC prevented particle-induced prosthesis loosening by inhibiting osteoclast formation, resulting in reduced periprosthetic bone loss, diminished pseudomembrane formation, improved bone-implant contact, reduced bone resorption-related turnover and enhanced stability of implants. Inhibition of NF-κB signalling by SPC was confirmed in vivo.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

SPC can prevent implant loosening through inhibiting osteoclast formation and bone resorption. Thus, SPC might be a novel therapeutic agent to prevent prosthesis loosening and for osteolytic diseases.

The local administration of parathyroid hormone encourages the healing of bone defects in the rat calvaria: Micro-computed tomography, histological and histomorphometric evaluation

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of a single-dose local administration of PTH on bone healing in rat calvarial bone defects by means of micro-computed tomography, histological and histomorphometric analysis.

DESIGN

Critical-size cranial osteotomy defects were created in 42 male rats. The animals were randomly divided into 3 groups. In the C Group, the bone defect was only filled with a blood clot. In the S Group, it was filled with a collagen sponge and covered with bovine cortical membrane. In the PTH Group, the defect was filled with a collagen sponge soaked with PTH and covered with bovine cortical membrane. The groups were further split in two for euthanasia 15 and 60days post-surgery. Data was statistically analyzed with t-tests for independent samples or the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test when applicable. Intragroup comparisons were analyzed with paired t-tests (p<0.05).

RESULTS

Micro-CT analysis results did not demonstrate statistically significant intergroup differences. At 15days post-surgery, the histomorphometric analysis showed that the PTH Group exhibited a significantly higher percentage of bone formation compared with the S Group. At 60days post-surgery, a higher percentage of new bone was observed in the PTH group.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the local administration of PTH encouraged the bone healing in critical-size calvarial defects in rats.

PTH coatings on titanium surfaces improved osteogenic integration by increasing expression levels of BMP-2/Runx2/Osterix

The aim of this experiment was to assemble parathyroid hormone (PTH) coatings on titanium surfaces and evaluate the effect on implant osseointegration.

Effect of osteoporosis on fixation of osseointegrated implants in rats

The effect of osteoporosis on implant osseointegration has been widely investigated, whereas osteoporosis may also newly occur in patient with previously osseointegrated implant. This study was designed to investigate the effect of osteoporosis on implant fixation in rats after successful osseointegration had been obtained. Seventy female Sprague-Dawley rats were included, and each animal received two titanium implants in the distal metaphysis of femur bilaterally. Eight weeks later, ten rats were sacrificed to confirm the establishment of implant osseointegration. All left rats were randomly subjected to bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) or sham operation. Three, six, and twelve weeks later, implant osseointegration, peri-implant bone tissue, and biomechanical properties of implant were analyzed. Right femurs with implants were used for micro-CT and histological analysis, and left femurs with implants were used for biomechanical test. Micro-CT, histology, and biomechanical test confirmed the destructive effect of OVX on previously osseointegrated implant in rats; when compared to sham-operated rats, peri-implant bone volume, trabecular architecture, bone-to-implant contact ratio, as well as biomechanical parameters decreased progressively within 12 weeks. Results also indicated that the effect of OVX on undisturbed bone (proximal tibiae) was much stronger than that on peri-implant bone. Osteoporosis produced a progressive negative effect on previously osseointegrated implant in distal femora of rats during 12 weeks. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 2426-2432, 2017.

The effects of combined human parathyroid hormone (1-34) and simvastatin treatment on the interface of hydroxyapatite-coated titanium rods implanted into osteopenic rats femurs

The effect of human parathyroid hormone 1-34 (PTH) and simvastatin (SIM) alone could promote bone healing in osteoporotic implant fixation, but there are no reports about the combined use of PTH and SIM for promotion of bone healing around implant in osteoporotic settings. This study aims to investigate effects of PTH + SIM on implant stabilization in osteopenic rats. Fourteen weeks after chronically fed a low protein diet, osteopenic rats randomly received implants. Subsequently, the animals were randomly divided into four groups: Control, SIM, PTH and PTH + SIM. Then all rats from groups PTH, SIM and PTH + SIM received PTH (40 μg/kg, three times a week), SIM (25 mg/kg, daily), or both for 12 weeks. The results of our study indicated that all treatments promoted bone healing around implant compared to Control, but PTH + SIM treatment showed significantly stronger effects than PTH or SIM alone in histological, micro-CT, and biomechanical tests. The results indicated additive effects of PTH and SIM on implant fixation in osteoporotic rats.

A comparative study of zinc, magnesium, strontium-incorporated hydroxyapatite-coated titanium implants for osseointegration of osteopenic rats

Surface modification techniques have been applied to generate titanium implant surfaces that promote osseointegration for the implants in cementless arthroplasty. However, its effect is not sufficient for osteoporotic bone. Zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), and strontium (Sr) present a beneficial effect on bone growth, and positively affect bone regeneration. The aim of this study was to confirm the different effects of the fixation strength of Zn, Mg, Sr-substituted hydroxyapatite-coated (Zn-HA-coated, Mg-HA-coated, Sr-HA-coated) titanium implants via electrochemical deposition in the osteoporotic condition. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were used for this study. Twelve weeks after bilateral ovariectomy, all animals were randomly divided into four groups: group HA; group Zn-HA; group Mg-HA and group Sr-HA. Afterwards, all rats from groups HA, Zn-HA, Mg-HA and Sr-HA received implants with hydroxyapatite containing 0%, 10% Zn ions, 10% Mg ions, and 10% Sr ions. Implants were inserted bilaterally in all animals until death at 12 weeks. The bilateral femurs of rats were harvested for evaluation. All treatment groups increased new bone formation around the surface of titanium rods and push-out force; group Sr-HA showed the strongest effects on new bone formation and biomechanical strength. Additionally, there are significant differences in bone formation and push-out force was observed between groups Zn-HA and Mg-HA. This finding suggests that Zn, Mg, Sr-substituted hydroxyapatite coatings can improve implant osseointegration, and the 10% Sr coating exhibited the best properties for implant osseointegration among the tested coatings in osteoporosis rats.

The effects of combined human parathyroid hormone (1-34) and simvastatin treatment on osseous integration of hydroxyapatite-coated titanium implants in the femur of ovariectomized rats

The effect of human parathyroid hormone 1-34 (PTH) and simvastatin (SIM) alone could promote bone healing in osteoporotic osseous integration of the implant, but there are no reports about the combined use of PTH and SIM for promotion of bone healing around implant in osteoporotic settings still limited. This study aims to investigate effects of PTH+SIM on osseous integration of the implant in OVX rats. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were used for this study. Twelve weeks after bilateral ovariectomy, all animals were randomly divided into four groups: group control; group SIM; group PTH and group PTH+SIM. Afterwards, all OVX rats received hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated titanium rods (external diameter and length are 1.5mm and 20mm) in the femoral medullary canal. Subsequently, the animals from group SIM, group PTH and group PTH+SIM received human parathyroid hormone 1-34 (60μg/kg, three times a week), SIM (5mg/kg daily), or both for 12 weeks. Implants were inserted bilaterally in all animals until death at 12 weeks. The bilateral femurs of rats were harvested for evaluation. All groups increased new bone formation around the surface of titanium rods and push-out force; group PTH+SIM showed the strongest effects on new bone formation and biomechanical strength. Additionally, these are significant difference observed in bone formation and push-out force between groups SIM and PTH. This finding suggests that intermittent administration of PTH or SIM alone has an effect to increase new bone formation on the surface of HA-coated implants in the osteoporotic condition, and the additive effects of combination PTH and SIM on osseous integration of the implant in OVX rats.

Intermittent administration of human parathyroid hormone (1-34) increases fixation of strontium-doped hydroxyapatite coating titanium implants via electrochemical deposition in ovariectomized rat femur

Previous studies have demonstrated the effect of human parathyroid hormone (1-34) (PTH) or strontium-doped hydroxyapatite coating (Sr-HA) on osteoporotic bone implantation. However, reports about effects of PTH plus Sr-HA on bone osseointegration of titanium implants in a state of osteoporosis were limited. This study was designed to investigate the effects of intermittent administration of human parathyroid hormone (1-34) on strontium-doped hydroxyapatite coating (Sr-HA) implant fixation in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Twelve weeks after bilateral ovariectomy, all animals were randomly divided into four groups including control group, Sr group, PTH group and PTH+Sr group. Forty OVX rats accepted implant insertion in the distal femurs, control group, and PTH group with HA implants and the Sr group and PTH+Sr group with Sr-HA implants. Animals from PTH group and PTH+Sr group then randomly received PTH (60 µg/kg, 3 times a week) until death at 12 weeks. After 12-week healing period, implants from group PTH+Sr revealed improved osseointegration compared with other treatment groups, which is manifested by the exceeding increase of bone area ratio and bone-to-implant contact, the trabecular microarchitecture and the maximal push-out force displayed by tests like histomorphometry, micro-CT, and biomechanics evaluation. These results demonstrated that PTH+ Sr-HA coatings could enhance implant osseointegration in OVX rats, and suggested the feasibility of using this method to improve implant fixation in osteoporotic bone.

Intermittent Parathyroid Hormone Enhances Cancellous Osseointegration of a Novel Murine Tibial Implant

BACKGROUND

Long-term fixation of uncemented joint implants requires early mechanical stability and implant osseointegration. To date, osseointegration has been unreliable and remains a major challenge in cementless total knee arthroplasty. We developed a murine model in which an intra-articular proximal tibial titanium implant with a roughened stem can be loaded through the knee joint. Using this model, we tested the hypothesis that intermittent injection of parathyroid hormone (iPTH) would increase proximal tibial cancellous osseointegration.

METHODS

Ten-week-old female C57BL/6 mice received a subcutaneous injection of PTH (40 μg/kg/day) or a vehicle (n = 45 per treatment group) five days per week for six weeks, at which time the baseline group was killed (n = 6 per treatment group) and an implant was inserted into the proximal part of the tibiae of the remaining mice. Injections were continued until the animals were killed at one week (n = 7 per treatment group), two weeks (n = 14 per treatment group), or four weeks (n = 17 per treatment group) after implantation. Outcomes included peri-implant bone morphology as analyzed with micro-computed tomography (microCT), osseointegration percentage and bone area fraction as shown with backscattered electron microscopy, cellular composition as demonstrated by immunohistochemical analysis, and pullout strength as measured with mechanical testing.

RESULTS

Preimplantation iPTH increased the epiphyseal bone volume fraction by 31.6%. When the data at post-implantation weeks 1, 2, and 4 were averaged for the iPTH-treated mice, the bone volume fraction was 74.5% higher in the peri-implant region and 168% higher distal to the implant compared with the bone volume fractions in the same regions in the vehicle-treated mice. Additionally, the trabecular number was 84.8% greater in the peri-implant region and 74.3% greater distal to the implant. Metaphyseal osseointegration and bone area fraction were 28.1% and 70.1% higher, respectively, in the iPTH-treated mice than in the vehicle-treated mice, and the maximum implant pullout strength was 30.9% greater. iPTH also increased osteoblast and osteoclast density by 65.2% and 47.0%, respectively, relative to the values in the vehicle group, when the data at post-implantation weeks 1 and 2 were averaged.

CONCLUSIONS

iPTH increased osseointegration, cancellous mass, and the strength of the bone-implant interface.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Our murine model is an excellent platform on which to study biological enhancement of cancellous osseointegration.

Are biologic treatments a potential approach to wear- and corrosion-related problems?

WHERE ARE WE NOW?: Biological treatments, defined as any nonsurgical intervention whose primary mechanism of action is reducing the host response to wear and/or corrosion products, have long been postulated as solutions for osteolysis and aseptic loosening of total joint arthroplasties. Despite extensive research on drugs that target the inflammatory, osteoclastic, and osteogenic responses to wear debris, no biological treatment has emerged as an approved therapy. We review the extensive preclinical research and modest clinical research to date, which has led to the central conclusion that the osteoclast is the primary target. We also allude to the significant changes in health care, unabated safety concerns about chronic immunosuppressive/antiinflammatory therapies, industry's complete lack of interest in developing an intervention for this condition, and the practical issues that have narrowly focused the possibilities for a biologic treatment for wear debris-induced osteolysis. WHERE DO WE NEED TO GO?: Based on the conclusions from research, and the economic, regulatory, and practical issues that limit the future directions toward the development of a biologic treatment, there are a few rational approaches that warrant investigation. These largely focus on FDA-approved osteoporosis therapies that target the osteoclast (bisphosphonates and anti-RANK ligand) and recombinant parathyroid hormone (teriparatide) prophylactic treatment to increase osseous integration of the prosthesis to overcome high-risk susceptibility to aseptic loosening. The other roadblock that must be overcome if there is to be an approved biologic therapy to prevent the progression of periprosthetic osteolysis and aseptic loosening is the development of radiological measures that can quantify a significant drug effect in a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. We review the progress of volumetric quantification of osteolysis in animal studies and clinical pilots. HOW DO WE GET THERE?: Accepting the aforementioned rigid boundaries, we describe the emergence of repurposing FDA-approved drugs for new indications and public (National Institutes of Health, FDA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and private (universities and drug and device manufactures) partnerships as the future roadmap for clinical translation. In the case of biologic treatments for wear debris-induced osteolysis, this will involve combined federal and industry funding of multicenter clinical trials that will be run by thought leaders at large medical centers.

Intermittently administered parathyroid hormone [1-34] promotes tendon-bone healing in a rat model

The objective of this study was to investigate whether intermittent administration of parathyroid hormone [1–34] (PTH[1–34]) promotes tendon-bone healing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in vivo. A rat model of ACL reconstruction with autograft was established at the left hind leg. Every day, injections of 60 μg PTH[1–34]/kg subcutaneously were given to the PTH group rats (n = 10) for four weeks, and the controls (n = 10) received saline. The tendon-bone healing process was evaluated by micro-CT, biomechanical test, histological and immunohistochemical analyses. The effects of PTH[1–34] on serum chemistry, bone microarchitecture and expression of the PTH receptor (PTH1R) and osteocalcin were determined. Administration of PTH[1–34] significantly increased serum levels of calcium, alkaline phosphatase (AP), osteocalcin and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). The expression of PTH1R on both osteocytes and chondrocyte-like cells at the tendon-bone interface was increased in the PTH group. PTH[1–34] also enhanced the thickness and microarchitecture of trabecular bone according to the micro-CT analysis. The results imply that systematically intermittent administration of PTH[1–34] promotes tendon-bone healing at an early stage via up-regulated PTH1R. This method may enable a new strategy for the promotion of tendon-bone healing after ACL reconstruction.

Pharmacologic augmentation of implant fixation in osteopenic bone

Osteoporosis presents a challenge for successful implant fixation due to an impaired healing response. Preclinical studies have consistently reported reduced osseointegration capability in trabecular bone. Although clinical studies of implant success in dentistry have not found a negative effect due to osteoporosis, low bone mass is a significant risk factor for implant migration in orthopedics. Pharmacologic treatment options that limit bone resorption or upregulate formation have been studied preclinically. While, both treatment options improve implant fixation, direct comparisons to-date have found anti-catabolic more effective than anabolic treatments for establishing implant fixation, but combination approaches are better than either treatment alone. Clinically, anti-catabolic treatments, particularly bisphosphonates have been shown to increase the longevity of implants, while limited clinical evidence on the effects of anabolic treatment exists. Preclinical experiments are needed to determine the effects of osteoporosis and subsequent treatment on the long-term maintenance of fixation and recovery after bone loss.