ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate a new method to construct tissue-engineering bone that will be applicable clinically.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The cultured 5th generation rabbit bone marrow stroma osteoblasts (MSO) was dissolved in 3% sodium alginate solution (the final concentration of sodium alginate in the solution being 1%, and MSO, 5x10(6)/L), and then inoculated into prepared true bone ceramic (TBC) and gelatinized the bone by dribbling with calcium gluconate. The standard bone defect models were made in 48 adult New Zealand rabbit's both radius. Among the 48 rabbits, 24 were in Groups A and B, in which the left radius was implanted with gelatinized MSO-TBC (Group A) and right radius implanted with autograft-bone (Group B); and the other 24 were in control group whose left radius was implanted with non-gelatinized MSO-TBC (Group C) and right radius implanted with gelatinized TBC (Group D). Outcomes of the implanted bones were assessed by radiology, pathological histology, osteogenetic quantitative analysis, and biomechanics at 2, 4, 8, 12 weeks postoperatively.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>In Groups A and B, a satisfactory bone reparation and bony union was noted within 12 weeks. In Groups C and D, bone reparation was not satisfied compared with Group A in terms of ostogenetic quantity and biomechanics.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Gelatinized MSO-TBC is an ideal artificial active bone that overcomes TBC shortcomings of fragileness and smooth surface that is not eligible for seed cell's adhesion. It is promising to put into clinical use extensively.</p>