[Preparation and examination of BMP-2 loaded chitosan nanospheres in vitro]

To prepare chitosan nanospheres for loading of BMP-2 and to evaluate its size, zeta potential, appearance, degradation and release characteristic in vitro, and then to investigate its feasibility as a carrier for sustained release of BMP-2.The BMP-2 loaded chitosan nanospheres were prepared using ionic crosslinking method with tripolyphosphate (TPP) and chitosan. Transmission electron microscope was used to evaluate the morphological properties, and laser particle size analyzer was used to analyze particle size, Zeta potential and distribution. Lysozyme degradation experiment was performed to assess the biodegradation behavior. ELISA assay was used to determine the loading efficiency, encapsulation efficiency and in vitro drug release kinetics. The data was analyzed by SPSS 19.0 software package.The BMP-2 loaded chitosan nanospheres were spherical in shape, smooth on surface and uniform dispersion without aggregation. The mean diameter was 150.85 nm. The dispersion index was 0.37, and zeta potential was +35.42 mV. The average loading efficiency and encapsulation efficiency were (56.83 ± 2.26)% and (68.24 ± 3.83)%, respectively. Release experiment in vitro showed that the releasing property of BMP-2 loaded chitosan nanospheres was consistent with two-phase kinetic regulation and BMP-2 was controlled to release from the chitosan nanospheres over 30 days.The BMP-2 loaded chitosan nanospheres prepared by ionic crosslinking method are successfully prepared which show a good controlled release property. It provides the basis for further application in bone tissue engineering.