Regeneration of periodontal tissues in non-human primates with rhGDF-5 and beta-tricalcium phosphate

The application of growth factors has been advocated in support of periodontal regeneration. recombinant human growth and differentiation factor-5 (rhgdf-5),a member of the bone morphogenetic protein family,has been used to encourage periodontal tissue regeneration. this study evaluated the dose response of rhgdf-5 lyophilized onto beta-tricalcium phosphate (btcp) granules for periodontal tissue regeneration in a baboon model. periodontal defects were created bilaterally in 12 baboons by a split-mouth design. plaque was allowed to accumulate around wire ligatures to create chronic disease. after 2 mos,the ligatures were removed,and a notch was placed at the base of the defect. two teeth on each side of the mouth were randomly treated with btcp only,0.5,1.0,or 2.0 mg rhgdf-5/g btcp. animals were sacrificed 5 mos post-treatment,with micro-ct and histomorphometric analysis performed. after 5 mos,analysis showed alveolar bone,cementum,and periodontal ligament formation in all treatment groups,with a dose-dependent increase in rhgdf-5-treated groups. height of periodontal tissues also increased with the addition of rhgdf-5,and the amount of residual graft material decreased with rhgdf-5 treatment. therefore,rhgdf-5 delivered on btcp demonstrated effective regeneration of all 3 tissues critical for periodontal repair. © 2011 international & american associations for dental research.