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Evaluation of platelet gel characteristics using thrombin produced by the thrombin processing device: a comparative
Elisabeth Semple1, Edwin R Speck, Rukhsana Aslam
1Canadian Blood Services, Research and Development, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. semplej@smh.toronto.on.ca
Summary
Residual ethanol in Thrombin Processing Device thrombin does not impact growth factor release, cell viability, or proliferation in autologous platelet gels. This suggests its safety and efficacy compared to bovine thrombin for clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Autologous platelet gels are used in regenerative medicine, prepared with patient-derived platelet-rich plasma and thrombin.
- Thrombin Processing Device (TPD) thrombin contains residual ethanol, necessitating evaluation of its impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of TPD thrombin on growth factor release from platelet gels.
- To assess the impact of TPD thrombin on cell viability and proliferation.
Main Methods:
- Platelet gels were prepared using TPD-produced human thrombin and commercial bovine thrombin (control) at varying ratios.
- Growth factor content (PDGF-β, TGF-β) was measured in clot and supernatant.
- Cell viability and proliferation assays (flow cytometry, 3H-thymidine incorporation) were performed.
Main Results:
- TPD thrombin at a 3.3:1 ratio showed lower growth factor release than bovine thrombin; this difference diminished at a 7:1 ratio.
- Platelet gel supernatants did not affect macrophage or fibroblast cell viability.
- Similar cell proliferation rates were observed across tested platelet gels and supernatants.
Conclusions:
- Residual ethanol in TPD thrombin does not adversely affect growth factor release, cell viability, or proliferation.
- TPD-produced thrombin exhibits comparable characteristics to commercial bovine thrombin for platelet gel preparation.
