Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) induced macrophage biphasic polarization regulated by dexamethasone in vivo
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To evaluate macrophage polarization dynamics in vivo after implantation of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) incorporated biomaterials, with a focus on dose-dependent effects and polarization modulation strategies. METHODS: A murine dorsal subcutaneous implantation model was utilized to analyze macrophage responses to varying concentrations of rhBMP-2-loaded biomaterials with or without dexamethasone (Dex). Polarization patterns were assessed through phenotypic characterization and cytokine expression profiling. RESULTS: Elevated rhBMP-2 concentrations amplified macrophage polarization activities, and concurrent activation of M1 and M2 polarization was observed accompanied by enhanced expression of both pro-inflammatory (M1-associated) and anti-inflammatory (M2-associated) cytokines. Dexamethasone co-administration effectively attenuated pro-inflammatory polarization patterns induced by high-dose rhBMP-2 implants while preserving regenerative cytokine expression. CONCLUSIONS: Optimized rhBMP-2 dosage facilitates a balanced macrophage polarization state, creating a pro-regenerative microenvironment through coordinated inflammatory resolution and tissue remodeling signals. For clinical applications requiring high rhBMP-2 doses, concurrent short-term anti-inflammatory therapy (e.g., dexamethasone) is recommended to mitigate excessive M1 polarization without compromising osteoinductive capacity.
DOI: 10.62347/ughk3747
Author: Aikebaier Aixirefu
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4411842661