Nitroglycerin hydrogel

Nitroglycerin hydrogel is an experimental therapeutic formulation developed by researchers at Minia University for the treatment of critical-size bone defects. The treatment utilizes a synthetic hydrogel, specifically Carbopol (polyacrylic acid), as a delivery vehicle for nitroglycerin (glyceryl trinitrate). Nitroglycerin acts as a nitric oxide (NO) donor; once released at the site of the bone defect, NO functions as a signaling molecule that enhances the differentiation and proliferation of osteoblasts and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. This mechanism aims to increase bone mineral density and improve bone geometry and strength, providing a potential alternative to autologous bone grafts in complex orthopedic cases where spontaneous healing is unlikely.

Other names

Glyceryl trinitrate hydrogelGTN hydrogel