Objective      To prepare biological composite combining porous tantalum and TGF-β1

and observe its effect on bone growth.       Methods      A total of 36 mandibular defect models were established in 6 Beagle dogs

TGF-β1 treated porous tantalum particles and non-treated porous tantalum particles were implanted into the defect areas of bilateral mandibular bone in Beagle dogs. Blank control group was also established. Animals were sacrificed on day 30

day 60 and day 90 after implantation. Mandibular bones were examined by X-ray detection

dissection

toluidine blue staining

tetracycline fluorescence assay

and CD31 associated antigen antibody assay.       Results      Larger area of new bone and more newly formed microvessels were found in the experimental group than in the control group on day 30 and day 60 (P0.05). On day 90

no difference was observed among the three groups (P0.05).       Conclusion      Porous tantalum combined with TGF-β1 can effectively promote bone formation and facilitate the biological adhesion of porous tantalum to surrounding bone tissues

thus shortening the healing time.