Prevascularization promotes endogenous cell-mediated angiogenesis by upregulating the expression of fibrinogen and connective tissue growth factor in tissue-engineered bone grafts

Background Vascularization is one of the most important processes in tissue-engineered bone graft (TEBG)-mediated regeneration of large segmental bone defects. We previously showed that prevascularization of TEBGs promoted capillary vessel formation within the defected site and accelerated new bone formation. However, the precise mechanisms and contribution of endogenous cells were not explored.