Use of isolated mature osteoblasts in abundance acts as desired-shaped bone regeneration in combination with a modified poly-DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA)-collagen sponge

Controlled regeneration of bone or cartilage has recently begun to facilitate a host of novel clinical treatments. An osteoblast line, which we isolated is able to form new bone matrix in vivo within 2 days and exhibits a mature osteoblast phenotype both in vitro and in vivo. Using these cells, we show that cuboidal bones can be generated into a predesigned shaped‐bone with high‐density bone trabeculae when used in combination with a modified poly‐DL‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid (PLGA)‐collagen sponge. PLGA coated with collagen gel serves as a good scaffold for osteoblasts. These results indicate that mature osteoblasts, in combination with a scaffold such as PLGA‐collagen sponge, show promise for use in a custom‐shaped bone regeneration tool for both basic research into osteogenesis and for development of therapeutic applications. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.