Objective: To determine the effects of autologous leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma (LP-PRP) on the expression of markers involved in cartilage-extracellular matrix production and inflammation in cartilage explants bearing osteoarthritis.
Materials and methods: Cartilage explants and LP-PRP were obtained from 10 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty. The explants were cultured in spinner flasks for 28 days in the presence of interleukin (IL)-1β and/or LP-PRP. The gene expression of catabolic (MMP13, ADAMTS5, and IL1β) and anabolic factors (COL2A1, ACAN, and SOX9) was quantified. A histological assessment was performed according to a modified Mankin score, and quantification of type II and I collagen deposition.
Results: The gene expression of catabolic factors and the Mankin score were lower in LP-PRP- and LP-PRP/IL-1β- than in IL-1β-treated explants, suggesting less matrix degradation in explants cultured in the presence of LP-PRP. Higher expression of genes involved in cartilage matrix restoration was observed in LP-PRP and LP-PRP/IL-1β- when compared to IL-1β-treated explants. The explants treated with LP-PRP and LP-PRP/IL-1β exhibited a higher deposition of type II collagen as well as a lower deposition of type I collagen and also better surface integrity and a significant increase in the number of chondrocytes.
Conclusion: LP-PRP treatment favored restoration in early osteoarthritic cartilage and reduced the pro-inflammatory effect of IL-1β. LP-PRP is a promising therapy for early osteoarthritis, as it promotes extracellular matrix repair, reduces inflammation, and slows cartilage degeneration.