Stereological evaluation of local administered palmatine on bone regeneration

Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the healing potential of the local administration of palmatine on autogenous grafted critical-sized cortical bone defects. Material and Method: Twenty-four rats were divided into three groups: Group C (passive control), Group G (active control) and Group G+PLM. A 5-mm diameter critical-size defect was created in the calvarium of each animal. In Group C, the defects were left empty. In Group G defects were filled with only autogenous graft and an absorbable collagen sponge treated with 300 mg sterile saline solution was applied on grafted area. In Group G+PLM defects were filled with autogenous graft, and 300 mg palmatine treated absorbable collagen sponge was applied on grafted area. All animals were euthanized at 28 days postoperative. Stereologic analyses were performed. New bone volume and connective tissue volumes were measured. Results: Stereologic analysis showed that Group G and G+PLM significantly had more new bone at four weeks compared with group C. Connective tissue volumes were also significantly higher in autografted groups. New bone and connective tissue volumes' difference were not statistically significant between group G and G+PLM groups. Discussion: Locally administered 500 mg palmatine doesn't enhance bone regeneration in critical size calvarial rat defects filled with autologous graft.