Abstract: The invention relates to a method for inducing bone formation via administration of an extract of devitalized, freeze dried Saos-2 cells. The extract is prepared by contacting the freeze dried Saos-2 cells, which are devitalized in the act of freeze drying, with a weak denaturing agent of the type used to separate proteins from cells. The extract does have properties superior to comparable treatment using whole Saos-2 cells. The extract is then further treated by applying it to a removing separating gel, and then fractions from the gel which have a molecular weight of from about 10 kd to about 60 kd. Also described are the extract itself, and formulations containing it.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for inducing bone formation via administration of an extract of devitalized, freeze dried Saos-2 cells. The extract is prepared by contacting the freeze dried Saos-2 cells, which are devitalized in the act of freeze drying, with a weak denaturing agent of the type used to separate proteins from cells. It is not clear that the active ingredient in the extract is a protein; however, the extract does have properties superior to comparable treatment using whole Saos-2 cells. Also, described are the extracts themselves and various compositions containing it.

Abstract: Monoclonal antibody (mAb) 1E10.1 immunologically distinguishing human bone from human liver alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes by specific binding to the former and not the latter is developed. mAb 1B12 is useful as a positive control as it reacts with human bone and liver ALP. Also developed is mAb 2B11 (2B11.1) which is useful as a positive control in rat ALP systems as it reacts with rat bone, liver, kidney and cartilage ALP.

Abstract: Human osteosarcoma Saos-2 cell extracts as for example in the form of a killed-cell, defatted cell residue are found to retain bone inducing-agent(s) after freeze-drying. Pellets of this material were found to promote new bone formation. This material is useful therefore for healing bone defects, bone tumors, bone fractures and in promoting bone graft assimilation.