The effect of recombinant human osteogenic protein-1 on growth plate repair in a sheep model

Abstract

Investigates the histological and molecular changes that occur to the growth plate and defect site following the Langenskiöld procedure (a surgical treatment for growth plate injuries that involves the removal of the bone bridge and replacement with autologous fat.) in the presence and absence of recombinant human OP-1. A sheep model was used in which a section of the growth plate was ablated and filled with autologous fat. Administration of rhOP-1 in conjunction with the Langenskiöld procedure initiated a complex response in the growth plate adjacent to the defect. There was a significant increase in growth plate height, but also accelerated the osteogenic response observed in untreated animals.