We characterized the presence and localization of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP-4) mRNA in the regenerating tissues produced by distraction osteogenesis following tibial osteotomy in the rabbit. The findings are consistent with previous reports on the localization of BMP-4 mRNA expression during fracture repair. The BMP-4 gene is expressed by less differentiated osteoprogenitor cells (fibroblastic mesenchymal cells and preosteoblasts), and not by fully differentiated osteoblasts. BMP-4 gene expression is localized in callus-forming tissue (muscle, periosteum) during callus formation. Our observations suggest that the BMP-4 gene product is one of the local contributing factors in regulating bone and cartilage formation in distraction osteogenesis.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Li et al. (1998) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: