Fig. 7

Histological analysis. a Representative low-magnification images from central sections of defects receiving constructs of 2D BMSC, 3D BMSC or no cells after 12 weeks, scale bars 1 mm; black arrows indicate original defect margins. Scalp and brain tissues are intact; mature bone appears light pink, woven bone dark pink and collagen dark blue. b Corresponding high-magnification images of newly formed bone, scale bars 100 µm (top panel) and 50 µm (bottom panel); black arrows indicate resorption lacunae suggestive of active remodeling. c Quantification of new bone formation (nB.Ar./T.Ar.%) and vessel counts (n = number/defect); data represent means