Zinc-coated carbonate apatite bone substitute derived from avian eggshell for potential use in bone regeneration

• Author Details:   
• Shu Min Wang
• Yi-Da Cai
• Alex Hung Kuo Chou ^*
• Sheila So
• Ahmed Shoaib
• Shaeir Walid
• Yoon-Ah Kook

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Introduction: This study aimed to evaluates the feasibility of a novel zinc-coated carbonate apatite (ZnCHA) bone substitute, derived from avian eggshell, for potential application in bone defects and compares its properties with a commercial bone substitute in terms of bone regeneration.
Materials and Methods: Thirty rabbits divided into three groups (Groups 1, 2, and 3). Each underwent surgery to create three critical-size bone defects (CSDs) on their skulls, designated as Defects A, B, and C. Defect A served as the control, B was filled with Bio-Oss®, and C was filled with the ZnCHA. The rabbits were euthanized at 4, 8, and 12 weeks labeled under Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, and the specimens were analyzed in the laboratory to compare new bone regeneration.
Results: Fluorescence microscopic evaluation revealed new bone regeneration around the bone substitutes in both Defects B and C. A statistically significant difference in the mineral apposition rate was noted between the substitutes in Defects B and C for Groups 2 and 3. Histological analysis showed no significant difference in trabecular bone regeneration in Defect A across all groups (P(a) > 0.05). However, Defects B and C exhibited significantly increased bone regeneration at various stages of bone healing (P(a) < 0 xss=removed>
Conclusion: The results indicate that ZnCHA demonstrates favorable bone regeneration and could be a viable alternative bone substitute.

Keywords: Bone substitute, Avian eggshell, ZnCHA, Bovine bone.