Monkey bone matrix induces bone formation in the athymic rat, but not in adult monkeys.

Demineralized bone matrix from young and adult monkeys was implanted intramuscularly for 6 weeks in athymic rats and adult monkeys. Cartilage and bone induction was evaluated by histology and calcium content. In the athymic rat, most implants induced cartilage or bone. In the monkeys, cartilage was formed only on rare occasions and there was no sign of bone formation. We conclude that (a) adult monkey bone matrix contains bone inductive properties; (b) these properties are not sufficient to induce bone formation in adult monkey muscle sites.