OBJECTIVETo investigate the expression and distribution pattern of Integrin alphaV beta3 (ItgalphaV beta3) in course of distraction 44 adults New Zealand white osteogenesis and to quest for the function of ItgalphaV beta3 in distraction osteogenesis (DO).

METHODSrabbits were selected and divided randomly into 3 groups: DO, bone fracture and normal group. There were 20, 20 and 4 rabbits in each group separately. Animal models were established and animals were killed at different time points. Sections were stained by IHC method. Distribution and expression pattern of ItgalphaV beta3 were observed by semi-quantitative technique, and the results were managed with statistic methods.

RESULTSThe expression of ItgalphaV beta3 was found both in the DO and bone fracture groups. The positive staining was seen mainly in vascular endothelial cells on cytomembrane and in cytoplasm. The staining intensity of group of DO was higher than that of the bone fracture group.

CONCLUSIONItgalphaV beta3 plays an important role in promoting the process of DO.