Platelet-rich plasma induces annulus fibrosus cell proliferation and matrix production

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains growth factors and creates a 3D structure upon clotting; PRP or platelet lysate (PL) might be considered for annulus fibrosus (AF) repair. Bovine AF cells were cultured with 25 % PRP, 50 % PRP, 25 % PL, 50 % PL, or 10 % FBS. After 2 and 4 days, DNA, glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and mRNA levels were analyzed. Histology was performed after injection of PRP into an AF defect in a whole disc ex vivo. By day 4, significant increases in DNA content were observed in all treatment groups. All groups also showed elevated GAG synthesis, with highest amounts at 50 % PL. Collagen I and II expression was similar between groups; aggrecan, decorin, and versican expression was highest at 25 % PL. Injection of PRP into the AF defect resulted in an increased matrix synthesis. Platelet-rich preparations increased the matrix production and cell number and may therefore be considered to promote AF repair.