ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The object of this study is to develop a novel BMP-2 delivery system for continuous osteogenic differentiation and to induce osteogenesis of stem cells using a bi-phase alginate carrier in vitro. METHODS: Alginate nanoparticle loaded BMP-2 was prepared by the reverse emulsification-diffusion technique. Physical properties and release profiles of alginate carriers were measured by Instron and ELISA kit, respectively. Cell viability and alkaline phosphate activity of hBMSCs differentiation was also evaluated by MTS and Metra(R)BAP assays, respectively. RESULTS: Optimal concentration for bi-phase alginate carrier was determined as 2wt% by evaluating mechanical and biological properties, and differentiation of BMSCs for bone regeneration. The 2% bi-phase alginate carrier had the lowest initial and final release ratio. In addition, the 2% bi-phase alginate carrier had a little higher ALP activity than the homogeneous carrier. An improved controlled release profile was obtained by combining alginate hydrogel with lyophilized particles. CONCLUSION: Bi-phase alginate carrier has many advantages such as biocompatibility and controlled release capability. It is expected to be effective as a scaffold and carrier in bone tissue engineering.