A rat bone marrow stromal cell (RBM) culture was used to evaluate novel bioactive calcium phosphate ceramics. Three rapidly resorbable, glassy crystalline materials with the main crystalline phase Ca2KNa(PO4)2 were investigated (sample code GB 1a, GB 14, GB 9). These materials were designed to exhibit a higher degree of biodegradability than tricalcium phosphate. Additionally, a bioactive glass ceramic of low biodegradability was examined (sample code AP 40). RBM cells were cultured on the disc-shaped test substrata for 14 d. The culture medium was changed and calcium and phosphate concentrations of the medium were determined daily. Specimens were evaluated using light microscopy and morphometry of the cell-covered substrate surface, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Except for GB 1a, the rat bone marrow cells attached and grew on all substrate surfaces. Of the different calcium phosphate ceramics tested, AP 40 facilitated osteoblast growth and the elaboration of the extracellular matrix to the highest degree followed by GB 9 and GB 14. The inhibition of cell growth encountered with GB 1a seemed to be related to its high phosphate ion release.
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