Title : Marine hydroxyapatite for bone filling: In vivo, in vitro, and in silico evaluation
Abstract:
Purpose: This study investigates the physicochemical and biological properties of a novel hydroxyapatite (HA) derived from blue fish scales, assessing its potential as a bone substitute for clinical applications.
Methods: Eighty New Zealand white rabbits were allocated into four groups: HA powder (EC group), 3D-printed HA cylinder (I3DFFF group), negative control (NC; untreated defect), and positive control (PC; defect treated with synthetic HA). In vitro analyses included X-ray diffraction, nitrogen adsorption, scanning electron microscopy, emission spectrophotometry, and MTT assays. In vivo evaluations, performed at 1, 3, 6, and 9 months post-implantation, comprised histological and radiological studies. Molecular docking explored the inhibitory effects of HA on RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis via the NF-κB signaling pathway.
Results: Marine-derived HA exhibited a mesoporous structure and bone-like crystallinity. In vivo, it demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, osteoinductivity, and osteoconductivity, effectively supporting bone regeneration. Molecular docking confirmed its potential to suppress osteoclastogenesis by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway.
Conclusion: Marine-derived HA products (EC-17 and I3DFFF) possess key physicochemical and biological characteristics, making them promising candidates for use as effective bone substitutes.
