BMP-2-Loaded Self-Crosslinking CaP/Hydrogel Composite Enables Complete Regeneration of Critical-Sized Segmental Bone Defects

Abstract

Critical-size segmental bone defects remain a major challenge in orthopedic surgery, often requiring complex reconstruction strategies associated with significant morbidity. This study evaluated the regenerative potential of a self-crosslinking bone substitute (SCBS) composed of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) granules suspended in a silanized hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Si-HPMC) hydrogel, with or without recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2), in a canine load-bearing defect model. Bilateral 2-cm segmental defects were created in the ulnae of five adult beagle dogs. Defects were filled with SCBS alone or SCBS loaded with rhBMP-2. Bone regeneration and biomaterial remodeling were assessed after 20 weeks using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), histomorphometry, elemental analysis, and histology. SCBS loaded with rhBMP-2 resulted in complete defect bridging, with 35% newly formed bone and only 5% residual BCP granules. In contrast, SCBS alone induced limited bone formation (10%), primarily at host interfaces, with substantial persistence of BCP (33%). Newly formed bone in the rhBMP-2 group exhibited a dense lamellar structure with Haversian organization and direct contact with residual biomaterial. Elemental analysis revealed a lower Ca/P ratio compared with control, suggesting ongoing remodeling. These findings demonstrate that controlled delivery of rhBMP-2 from a self-crosslinking CaP/hydrogel composite enhances both bone formation and biomaterial resorption, supporting a coupled regeneration process. This approach represents a promising strategy for the treatment of segmental bone defects and non-unions in orthopedic applications.