A composite of natural coral, collagen, bone protein and basic fibroblast growth factor tested in a rat subcutaneous model.

A rat subcutaneous model was used to test the osteoinductive efficacy of a composite consisting of natural coral, collagen, a bone morphogenetic protein-like material [termed bone protein (BP)], and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). Results indicated good ossicle formation only when BP was present, whether with or without bFGF. Initially, cartilage and mineralized cartilage were apparent. With time, osteoblastic bone formation and hematopoietic marrow were evident. bFGF may have enhanced the maturation of the ossicles in the early stages. Coral-collagen appears to be a good carrier vehicle for BP and should be tested in a bony site. This would allow the osteoconductive property of coral to be expressed.