ABSTRACT
Objective:To observe the effect of NGF on the expression of BMP-2 in rabbit model and explore the molecular mechanism of NGF which might promote the healing of mandibular fracture with nerve injury. Method:The 48 New-Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into the experimental group (mandibular fracture+to cut off the nerve bundle+NGF by GS), the control group (mandibular fracture+to cut off the nerve bundle+NS by GS), the blank group (mandibular fracture+to cut off the nerve bundle) and the full-set group (mandibular fracture+retains the nerve bundle). After 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks and 8 weeks, 3 rabbits were sacrificed in each group for HE staining and RT-PCR, respectively. Result:HE staining showed the osteogenesis phenomenon: the experimental group was clearer than control group, the full-set group was clearer than the blank group and the control group is similarly to the blank group. RT-PCR results revealed that there was a statistically significance in the early stage. The expression of BMP-2 peaked in 2 weeks and decreased later with time. Conclusion:The local application of NGF can prompt BMP-2 expression in the early stages of the mandibular fracture with partial nerve injury healing and this may be one of the molecular mechanisms.