PRP and Cotton-Like β-TCP/PLGA Fibers Enhance Bone Repair in Osteoporotic Vertebral Defects via Macrophage Modulation...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopedic Research

Background:

• Osteoporotic vertebral defects pose significant challenges in bone regeneration.
• Current treatments often have limitations in promoting effective bone repair in compromised bone quality.
• Developing advanced biomaterials and biologics is crucial for improving outcomes in osteoporotic fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of combining platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with β-tricalcium phosphate/polylactic-co-glycolic acid (β-TCP/PLGA) fibers for treating osteoporotic vertebral defects in a rat model.
• To assess the impact of this combination therapy on bone regeneration, macrophage differentiation, and inflammatory responses.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-two ovariectomized rats with induced osteoporosis were used.
• Critical bone defects were created in the lumbar vertebrae and treated with either PRP-infused β-TCP/PLGA fibers, β-TCP/PLGA fibers with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), or no material (control).
• Bone regeneration, macrophage phenotypes (M1/M2), and inflammatory markers were assessed histologically over 12 weeks.

Main Results:

• The PRP-treated group exhibited significantly enhanced early bone formation compared to the PBS control group.
• Increased expression of osteogenic markers was observed in the PRP group.
• A notable shift in macrophage activity from the M1 inflammatory phenotype to the M2 healing phenotype was detected in the PRP group.

Conclusions:

• The combination of PRP and β-TCP/PLGA fibers effectively promotes bone repair in osteoporotic vertebral defects.
• This therapeutic approach modulates the local immune response, favoring a pro-healing environment.
• PRP-loaded β-TCP/PLGA fibers demonstrate potential as a promising surgical intervention for osteoporotic vertebral fractures.