DefinePK

Abstract

In this study, the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) activation by bovine thrombin, thrombin receptor agonist peptide-6 (TRAP), and chitosan to become platelet-rich gel (PRG) was examined. In addition to measuring in vitro clotting times and clot retraction over time, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor β-1 (TGF-β1) generated by clot formation were also assayed. Rapid polymerization of PRP was observed when activated with bovine thrombin, followed by TRAP and chitosan. Bovine thrombin caused considerable clot retraction at 1, 2, 4 hours, but the clot retraction with different activators was similar at 24 hours. Although levels of TGF-β1 were similar for all activators used, greater concentration of PDGF was detected from PRG after TRAP treatment. It was concluded activating PRP with TRAP or chitosan was a safe alternative to bovine thrombin, resulting in excellent working time, significantly less clot retraction, and more growth factors compared to the currently available activator.