Thrombocytes are effectors of the innate immune system releasing human beta defensin-3
Mersedeh Tohidnezhad1, Deike Varoga, Rainer Podschun
1Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University, Germany. mtohidnezhad@ukaachen.de
Background:
Thrombocyte concentrate i.e. platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has become a popular adjunct for many surgical procedures. It is believed to improve bone and soft tissue healing. Recently antimicrobial effects of the autologous preparation were reported by several groups. In this study we investigated the antimicrobial effect of PRP against gram-negative microbes which frequently cause severe complications in orthopaedic trauma surgery.
Methods:
Platelet-rich plasma was produced from liquid preserved thrombocyte concentrates. ELISA, Western blot and immunohistochemistry were preformed to investigate the release and content of platelet concentrates. A radial diffusion assay was used to detect antimicrobial effects of PRP.
Results:
We detected the human beta defensin-3 in bactericidal concentrations in platelet preparations by ELISA, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. In antimicrobial testing we demonstrated effective inhibition of Escherichia coli (ATCC 11303), Bacterium megaterium (ATCC 14581), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 13883), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212) and Proteus mirabilis (ATCC21100).
Conclusion:
With this study we demonstrate antimicrobial action of a popular adjunct for orthopaedic and trauma surgery against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. We have identified a possible mechanism of action via the secretion of HBD-3 as a first line defence in contaminated wounds and in elective application of PRP. This finding supports a broader spectrum of clinical indications for an autologous platelet preparation.
Insights
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) exhibits antimicrobial properties against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. This study identified human beta defensin-3 (HBD-3) as a key component responsible for PRP's antibacterial action, supporting its use in surgery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is widely used in surgery to enhance healing.
- Emerging evidence suggests PRP possesses antimicrobial properties.
- This study focused on PRP's efficacy against gram-negative bacteria common in orthopedic trauma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antimicrobial effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
- To assess PRP's activity against clinically relevant gram-negative pathogens.
- To identify potential antimicrobial components within PRP.
Main Methods:
- PRP was prepared from liquid preserved thrombocyte concentrates.
- ELISA, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry were used to analyze PRP composition.
- Radial diffusion assays assessed PRP's antimicrobial activity against various bacteria.
Main Results:
- Human beta defensin-3 (HBD-3) was detected in bactericidal concentrations in PRP.
- PRP demonstrated effective inhibition against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis.
- Antimicrobial activity was also observed against Bacterium megaterium and Enterococcus faecalis.
Conclusions:
- PRP exhibits significant antimicrobial action against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
- The secretion of HBD-3 is identified as a primary mechanism for PRP's antibacterial effect.
- These findings broaden the potential clinical applications of autologous PRP preparations in surgery.
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