Abstract
This article aims to explore the effects of salmon demineralized bone matrix (DBM) combined with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) on bone formation. Salmon DBM, with its high water absorption capacity, was used to construct a composite material with rhBMP-2 under pH 7.0 and optimal temperature conditions. The compound effects of the composite material were evaluated by measuring its mechanical strength, microstructure, and biocompatibility through scanning electron microscopy and cell culture experiments. The effect of rhBMP-2 within the composite was assessed by in vivo fluorescence imaging. rhBMP-2 was successfully loaded onto salmon DBM and released slowly. The composite material's structure, strength, and cell compatibility were unaffected. The compressive strength was 2.87 MPa, slightly higher than DBM alone (2.27 MPa). In vivo imaging showed slow release of rhBMP-2, with more than 50% fluorescence intensity remaining after 3 days. Cytotoxicity tests showed no harmful effects, with over 95% cell growth. Rats with rhBMP-2-loaded DBM had higher serum calcium (1,569 ± 114 mg/L) than those with DBM alone (1,349 ± 110 mg/L, p < 0.05). Histology showed more bone growth and calcium deposition around rhBMP-2-loaded DBM. Loading rhBMP-2 onto DBM does not alter its physical, chemical, or biological properties; it enhances the osteogenic potential of DBM.