Applications of the regenerative capacity of platelets in modern medicine

Abstract

Platelets produce platelet growth factors such as PDGF, IGF-1, EGF-, HGF, TGFβ, bFGF, and VEGF, which are crucial in regulating all stages of the wound healing process. The source of these substances is platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Over the past five decades, the interest and use of the regenerative properties of platelets have increased significantly in many different fields of medicine around the world. PRP and PRF plate preparations are used in: 1. Dentistry (they reduce bleeding, facilitate and accelerate soft tissue healing and bone regeneration - FGF 2, IGF-1, IGF-2, TGF-β1, and PDGF); 2. Sports medicine - IGF-1, IGF-2, TGF-β, VEGF, PDGF and bFGF, EGF); 3. dermatology and cosmetology (treatment of alopecia, hair reconstruction - FGF-7, HGF, acne scars, skin rejuvenation and regeneration, treatment of chronic and poorly healing wounds, burns, and acquired vitiligo); 4. Gynecology and reproductive medicine (treatment of infertility, erectile dysfunction - PDGF-β, TGF-β, IGF-1, in sexual dysfunction - PDGF, in vaginal atrophy); 5 Ophthalmology (in the healing of corneal epithelial wounds, in the treatment of dormant corneal ulcers, dry eye syndrome and the reconstruction of the corneal surface; 6. Neurology (regeneration of neurons, pain alleviation, and clinical symptoms - TGF-β 1, IGF-1, PDGF, VEGF) and FGF). Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a very interesting alternative and complement to traditional methods of treatment. However, the potential for using platelets is still not fully understood. The composition of platelet-rich plasma depends on many factors that may affect its use's efficacy and clinical benefits. Further research is necessary to standardize PRP delivery's preparation procedures and methods for a specific disease entity or clinical case.

Keywords: IGF-1; PDGF; Platelet growth factors; Platelet-rich plasma; Regenerative potential; TGF; VEGF.