In-vitro analysis of resorption processes following high hydrostatic pressure treatment of human trabecular bone

The present study focused on the investigation of the resorption behavior of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treated bone allografts in vitro by analyzing the differentiation and activity of osteoclast precursors. HHP is known to be an efficient method for devitalization of bone grafts and a gentle alternative compared to conventional processing. While bone resorption is part of the physiological fracture healing, highly processed allografts are prone to excessive degradation, which ultimately leads to graft failure. The influence of HHP treatment on the extent of resorption was analyzed in bone blocks cultivated with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Data on gene and protein expression as well as histological alterations were obtained. The present study showed that an application of 500 MPa led to significant osteoclastic differentiation and activity which was observed already after 8 h of incubation. Whereas a treatment of 250 MPa resulted also in the differentiation of PBMCs, osteoclastic activity was similar to the untreated control. Thus, the pressure level of HHP is crucial for the extent of degradation processes. Based on our results a treatment with 500 MPa might not be suitable for allografts intended for subsequent clinical applications. This study provides a basis for further experiments including in vivo studies which should focus on the equilibrium of bone formation and bone resorption.