Experimental agents to improve fracture healing: utilizing the WNT signaling pathway

Bone tissue has the rare capability of scarless self-repair after injury. However, because successful fracture healing requires tight interactions of many cell types and signaling molecules, any disruption of this highly coordinated processes can result in delayed healing or even non-union formation [1]. The rate of fracture healing complications in orthopedic patients is reported to be 5 –20% [2, 3]. Reasons for impaired bone healing are manifold and include inappropriate mechanical stabilization, infection, impaired blood supply, comorbid diseases, advanced age, hormone and nutrition status of the patient, pharmacological therapy and genetic variation [4-6].
Source: Injury - Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Source Type: research