Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are capable of inducing endochondral bon
e formation when applied on biologic carriers in numerous mammalian in vivo
assay systems. Bone morphogenetic protein gene therapy is also currently b
eing developed to promote osteogenesis for clinical indications such as spi
nal fusions, craniofacial bone loss, and osteoporosis. In this study, criti
cal-sized mandibular defects were treated with a control adenoviral vector
(Ad-P-gal), a BMP-2 adenoviral vector (Ad-BMP-2), or a BMP-9 adenoviral vec
tor (Ad-BMP-9). Gross tissue examination, radiographic analysis, and histol
ogic analysis demonstrated significant bony healing in the BMP treated grou
ps compared to controls. Osteogenesis was limited to the bony defect, witho
ut extension into the surrounding soft tissues. The study suggests that wit
h further development, BMP gene therapy may be potentially useful for repai
r of bony defects in the craniofacial region.