Evaluation of angiogenic and osteogenic properties promoted by latex-derived proteins: a histological, histometrical and immunohistochemical study in the rabbit calvaria

Abstract

The preparation of the alveolar bone crest for implant placement using grafting techniques is a routine procedure nowadays. With this aim, the autogenous bone is preferable to other grafts origins due to its intrinsic osteogenic properties, i.e. osteoconduction and osteoinduction. However, the autogenous grafting procedure involves an additional surgery and the risk of morbidity at the donor site what has expanded the search for new materials that could augment bone volume by interacting with bone-forming precursors. Recently, a bio-membrane made of natural latex produced by Hevea brasilienses was reported to present angiogenic properties that might aid bone repairing in rats' dental sockets. The aim of the present study is to testing both the angiogenic and osteogenic capabilities of specific latex proteins applied in gel and bio-membrane forms in a rabbit calvaria experimental model. Twenty four animals divided into 4 groups will be subjected to bilateral bone defects created in the calvarial bone. The defects will be treated either with: blood clot (control group I); latex protein immersed in gel (group II); bio-membrane alone (group III); and bio-membrane plus protein immersed in gel. Twelve animals will be sacrificed respectively at 10 and 20 days after surgery for histological, histometrical and immunohistochemical (VEGF anti-bodies labeling) analysis. The data from the different groups will be compared statistically by ANOVA. (AU)