Beurteilung der Angiogenese und Osteogenese unter dem Einfluss von Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)

Purpose. This intention of this study was to investigate the influence of controlled release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on angiogenesis and osteogenesis in a mandibular defect model. Methods. A total of 56 rabbits were operated and bicortical holes were placed in the mandible. The defects were filled with collagen type I implants, collagen implants complexed with 0.8-µg VEGF₁₆₅, or left without any filling. After 3, 7, 14, and 28 days specimens were taken and histologic, histomorphometric, and immunohistologic analyses were carried out concerning density of vessels, total surface of vessels, bone surface, and bone density. Results. The number of vessels was increased in all groups up to 14 days, followed by physiologic regression in the control groups, whereas the study group showed persistently high numbers. The density of regenerated bone was significantly higher in the study group. Conclusion. The activation of angiogenesis using VEGF₁₆₅ leads to more intensive angiogenesis and bone regeneration.