Effect of platelet derived growth factor on heterotopic bone formation in rats

Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) and induction of newly woven bone growth were studied in rats. PDGF (20 ng/mL) was administered continuously for 2 weeks via microosmotic pumps to 6-mm-long pieces of demineralized rat femur inserted into muscle pouches. Each rat had a control piece of demineralized bone inserted into the contralateral gluteal muscle. The samples were collected after 4 weeks, and wet and ash weight were recorded. Fourteen rats were evaluated. There were no differences as regards wet weights. PDGF increased the ash weights.