BMP2/7 heterodimer is a stronger inducer of bone regeneration in peri-implant bone defects model than BMP2 or BMP7 homodimer

This study aimed to compare the effects of bone morphogenetic protein BMP2/7 heterodimer and BMP homodimers on bone regeneration in bone defects model. Identical peri-implant bone defects model were created using proper controls on the frontal skull in 18 minipigs. Collagen sponges with low-dose (30 ng/mL) BMP2/7 heterodimer, BMP2 or BMP7 homodimer were filled in the defects. New bone formation and the expression of type I collagen (Col1), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OCN) were evaluated after 2, 3, and 6 weeks of implantation. BMP2/7 resulted in significantly higher new bone areas percentage in the defect region than BMP2 and BMP7 (p<0.05). Immunohistochemical staining of Col1, ALP and OCN was stronger in BMP2/7 group than BMP2, BMP7 and control group (p<0.05). These results demonstrate that BMP2/7 heterodimer is a stronger inducer of osteoblastogenesis and could be applied at low dose to reduce the cost and side effects of BMP homodimers.