Hydrogels derived from demineralized and decellularized bone – novel materials for bone regeneration

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of mammalian tissues has been isolated, decellularized and utilized as a scaffold to facilitate the repair and reconstruction of numerous tissues. Recent studies have suggested that superior function and complex tissue formation occurred when ECM scaffolds were derived from site specific homologous tissues compared to heterologous tissues. Musculoskeletal conditions are the most common cause of severe long term pain and physical disability worldwide [1]. Treatment of bone defects often involves the use of bone graft substitutes, such as demineralized bone matrix (DBM). Current delivery of DBM particles requires incorporation within a carrier liquid. However, differences in osteogenic activity, inflammation and nephrotoxicity have been reported with various carrier liquids. Thus, the objectives of this study were to produce hydrogel forms of DBM and ECM from bovine bone, denoted bDBM and bECM, and to thoroughly characterize their mechanical and biological properties and determine their suitability for use in bone regeneration applications.