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Effects of Allogeneic Platelet-Rich Plasma PRP on the Healing Process of Sectioned Achilles Tendons of Rats: A Methodological Description
Published on: March 19, 2018
Evaluation of cervical healing in a rat model using alginate hydrogel embedded with platelet-rich plasma
Elham Ahmadi1, Mahya Soleymani Mehranjani1, Arya Afrooghe2
1Iranian Tissue Bank and Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Background:
External damage is a significant and treatable cause of cervical insufficiency (CI). This study evaluates a controlled-release drug delivery system combining platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with alginate hydrogel (Alg-PRP) to enhance cervical healing in a rat model.
Methods:
Forty female Wistar rats were assigned to four groups (n = 10): Alg-PRP, PRP, PBS, and healthy control. Cervical injury was induced, and treatments were administered accordingly. Cervical regeneration was assessed using qRT-PCR, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Functional outcomes, including pregnancy rate and number of pups, were also analyzed.
Results:
Alg-PRP hydrogel exhibited a porous structure, minimal toxicity, and sustained growth factor release. VEGF expression was significantly higher in the Alg-PRP group (p < 0.001), while MMP9 and TGF-β expression were reduced (p < 0.0001, p < 0.001). Collagen I and III levels were lower (p < 0.001, p < 0.05). Masson's Trichrome staining confirmed reduced fibrosis (p < 0.01). IHC demonstrated increased epithelial thickness, proliferation (p < 0.001, p < 0.0001), and angiogenesis (p < 0.01), alongside decreased fibrosis markers (p < 0.0001). The Alg-PRP group had the highest pregnancy rate (100%) and greater pup numbers.
Conclusion:
Alg-PRP hydrogel significantly enhances cervical healing and reproductive outcomes, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic for cervical injuries.
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