Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM: In this study, the neutrophil response to an antimicrobial extract was evaluated as a potential marker of inflammatory process after implantation of alginate and carbon fiber biomaterials into a bone or cartilage defect in rabbits. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The response to biomaterials used was assessed based on enzyme release, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and survival of neutrophils isolated from the rabbit's blood after implantation. RESULTS: The implantation of alginate biomaterial increased elastase and alkaline phosphatase release, whereas carbon fibers did not evoke increased elastase release. The implantation of both biomaterials resulted in a higher myeloperoxidase (MPO) release after 30-min incubation. Stimulation with different fractions of antimicrobial peptide (AMP) extract diminished MPO release and nitric oxide generation, as well as slightly reducing neutrophil survival. CONCLUSION: Our study permits the assessment of the neutrophil intravital response to an implant without the need for preparation of histological sections. Additionally, AMP extract restricted some manifestations of the pro-inflammatory response and may be considered a regulator of neutrophil activity in the early inflammatory phase, preventing rejection of the implant.