Fig. 6
Micro-CT images, histological and histomorphometric analysis of MEM with Osteo-EVs. a Representative histological and μCT images of central slices at 4 weeks. Images showing maximum, average, and minimum bone formation in the Osteo-EVs and SFM groups, scale bar: 1 mm. b Representative histological images of Levi-Lazko dye staining at higher magnification, showing the different tissues analysed in the Osteo-EVs and SFM groups. The upper panel in each experimental group shows a region of interest with outlined sub-regions, which are enlarged in the lower panel (scale bars: upper 200 um, lower panel 50 um). Each sub-region shows a specific tissue type indicated by letters (A-F). (A and D) new bone (B and E), hybrid bone (C and F) and membrane. Numbers on the side panel indicate relative percentages of new bone for the treatment group (red), hybrid bone (cyan), mineralized membrane fibres (pink), residual unmineralized membrane (yellow) and soft tissue area (white). Yellow arrows; mineralized membrane, pink arrows; residual membrane. c Quantification of histomorphometric parameters. Data represent means (n = 5). SFM: serum-free medium; MEM: collagen membrane; Total bone (New Bone + Hybrid Bone Area): TtBAr; nB.Ar: New bone area; hB.Ar: Hybrid bone area; mMb.Ar: Mineralized membrane area; rMb.Ar: Residual Membrane area; Vd.Ar: Soft Tissue Area