Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Influences Bone-Tendon Interface Healing Through Osteogenesis: Investigation in a Rabbit Partial Patellectomy Model

Abstract

Background: Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which has been shown to play an important role in osteogenesis during fracture repair, is also widely distributed throughout the tendon and ligament. Few studies have focused on the role of CGRP in repair of the bone-tendon interface (BTI). Purpose: To explore the effect of CGRP expression on BTI healing in a rabbit partial patellectomy model. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A total of 60 mature rabbits were subjected to a partial patellectomy and then randomly assigned to CGRP, CGRP-antagonist, and control groups. In the CGRP-antagonist group, the CGRP receptor antagonist BIBN4096BS was administered to block CGRP receptors. The patella–patellar tendon complex was harvested at 8 and 16 weeks postoperatively and subjected to radiographic, microlaser Raman spectroscopy, histologic, and biomechanical evaluation. Results: Radiographic data showed that local CGRP expression improved the growth parameters of newly formed bone, including area and volumetric bone mineral density (P