[Experimental research on spine fusion induced by tissue engineered bone].

OBJECTIVE

To construct a reasonable substitute for the autograft bone in vitro and transplant it back into the rabbit models to induce the spine fusion.

METHODS

The bone marrow stem cell from the seven New Zealand rabbits were cultured. Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-4 (rhBMP-4) that has been proved to be bioactive was obtained by the way of genetic engineering. Using the vacuum freezing machine to mix a certain quantity of rhBMP-4 into type I collagen to form a new kind of carrier. Animal model of spine facet process fusion was used. Bone marrow stem cells combined with rhBMP-4 and I type collagen were implanted between the facet process to induce the spine fusion. type I collagen and bone marrow stem cell was used in the controlled group.

RESULTS

New bone formation was obvious in the test group. The facet joint was fused very well in this side. No bone formation was present on the other side.

CONCLUSIONS

The new composite: bone marrow stem cells, rhBMP-4 and type I collagen was an ideal kind of substitute for the autograft bone.