Platelet-rich fibrin constructs elute higher concentrations of transforming growth factor-β1 and increase tendon cell proliferation over time when compared to blood clots: a comparative in vitro analysis
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Updated: Jun 9, 2026
Characterization of Leukocyte-platelet Rich Fibrin, A Novel Biomaterial
Published on: September 29, 2015
Lance C Visser1, Steven P Arnoczky, Oscar Caballero
1Laboratory for Comparative Orthopaedic Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
Objective:
To compare the concentration of a representative growth factor (transforming growth factor-beta [TGF-β]1) eluted from a platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFMatrix), a platelet-rich fibrin membrane (PRFMembrane), and a whole blood clot (BC) over time, and to compare the mitogenic effect of the eluents from each construct.
Study Design:
In vitro study.
Sample Population:
PRFMatrix, PRFMembrane, and BC (n=4/construct/time point).
Methods:
Each construct was placed in tissue culture wells containing media for 7 days. The media was collected and replenished on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 and the concentration of eluted TGF-β1 was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Canine tendon cells were subjected to additional aliquots of the conditioned media and the amount of cell proliferation compared.
Results:
The media from both PRFM (PRFMatrix and PRFMembrane) constructs contained significantly more (P≤.026) TGF-β1 at days 1 and 3 and produced a significant increase (P≤.044) in cell proliferation at all time points compared with the BC. The PRFMembrane media contained significantly more (P≤.05) TGF-β1 at days 1 and 3 and produced a significant increase (P≤.002) in cell proliferation at all time points compared with the PRFMatrix.
Conclusions:
Both PRFM constructs are comprised of a dense fibrin scaffold that contains increased concentrations of TGF-β1 and are capable of increasing tendon cell proliferation over time when compared with a BC.
Clinical Relevance:
The sustained increase in growth factor availability in PRFM constructs may be beneficial in the healing of biologically compromised tissues.
