The aim of this study was to evaluate the enhancement of osteogenic potential of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) bone substitute coated with Escherichia coli -derived recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (ErhBMP-2) and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG).

The cell viability, differentiation, and mineralization of osteoblasts was tested with ErhBMP-2-/EGCG solution. Coated BCP surfaces were also investigated. Standardized, 6-mm diameter defects were created bilaterally on the maxillary sinus of 10 male New Zealand white rabbits. After removal of the bony windows and elevation of sinus membranes, ErhBMP-2-/EGCG-coated BCP was applied on one defect in the test group. BCP was applied on the other defect to form the control group. The animals were sacrificed at 4 or 8 weeks after surgery. Histologic and histometric analyses of the augmented graft and surrounding tissue were performed.

The 4-week and 8-week test groups showed more new bone (%) than the corresponding control groups ( P <0.05). The 8-week test group showed more new bone (%) than the 4-week test group ( P <0.05).

ErhBMP-2-/EGCG-coated BCP was effective as a bone graft material, showing enhanced osteogenic potential and minimal side effects in a rabbit sinus augmentation model.