The antimicrobial effects of cord blood-derived platelet gel on nosocomial pathogens

Akbar Hashemi Tayer1, Gholamreza Shokoohi2

  • 1Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.

Insights

Umbilical cord blood-derived platelet gel shows strong antimicrobial activity against resistant bacteria like MRSA and fungi. This novel autologous antimicrobial offers a promising new treatment option for infections.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Biotechnology
  • Regenerative Medicine

Background:

  • Umbilical cord blood-derived platelet gel (CBPG) is a rich source of growth factors and antimicrobial peptides.
  • Nosocomial pathogens pose a significant threat in healthcare settings, necessitating novel antimicrobial strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activity of CBPG against common nosocomial pathogens.
  • To determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and time-kill kinetics of CBPG.

Main Methods:

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was isolated from umbilical cord blood and activated to form platelet gel (PG).
  • Antimicrobial activity was tested against Klebsiella pneumoniae, MRSA, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Aspergillus spp., and Penicillium spp. using broth microdilution and time-kill assays.
  • Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and log10 reduction at 24h were determined.

Main Results:

  • PG demonstrated significant bacteriostatic activity against MRSA and K. pneumoniae (MIC 2.2-2.8 × 10^8 platelets/mL; 1.7-1.8 log10 reduction at 24 h).
  • No significant antibacterial activity was observed against P. aeruginosa or A. baumannii.
  • PG exhibited sustained fungistatic effects against Candida albicans, Aspergillus spp., and Penicillium spp. (MIC: 1.9-4.2× 10^8 platelets/mL up to 72 h).

Conclusions:

  • CBPG possesses potent bacteriostatic and fungistatic properties, particularly against multidrug-resistant Gram-positive bacteria.
  • CBPG represents a novel autologous antimicrobial agent with potential clinical applications.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of CBPG in managing nosocomial infections.
Abstract

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