Controlled release of platelet-derived growth factor from porous poly(L-lactide) membranes for guided tissue regeneration

Platelet-derived growth factor-BE (PDGF-EE) was incorporated into porous poly (L-lactide) (PLLA) membranes with an aim of improving early bone healing in guided tissue regeneration (GTR) therapy. Porous PDGF-BB loaded membranes were fabricated by coating PDGF-BB-dissolved PLLA methylene chloride-ethyl acetate solutions on polyglycolic acid (PGA) meshes. Release kinetics of PDGF-BB, biologic activity, degradability and guided tissue regenerative potentials of the membranes were investigated. Release of PDGF-BB could be controlled by adding bovine serum albumin that may provide porous diffusion channels for PDGF-BB release and by varying initial loading content of PDGF-BB. Biologic activity of PDGF-EE in the membranes was ascertained by fibroblast chemotaxis. PDGF-BE loaded membranes maintained proper degradation property for periodontal application. PDGF-BB loaded membrane markedly increased new bone formation in rat calvarial defects, and completed bony reunion after 2 weeks of implantation period. These results suggested that PDGF-EE loaded PLLA membrane might potentially enhance guided tissue regenerative efficacy. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.