In vitro release of growth factors from platelet-rich fibrin (PRF): a proposal to optimize the clinical applications of PRF

ObjectiveDetermine the release of growth factors (GF) from platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and supernatant serum to optimize clinical use.Study designPlatelet-derived growth factors-AB (PDGF-AB), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) were quantified in PRF releasate and in the supernatant serum (N = 8) over 300 minutes after clot formation. Protein profiles were determined by SDS-PAGE.ResultsMean quantity of PDGF-AB, TGF-ß1, VEGF, and EGF in PRF releasate increased significantly to about 52, 72, 1, and 3 ng, respectively, whereas mean IGF-1 content remained at 250 ng. GF was also found in serum supernatant. Protein profiles of the releasates and the supernatant serum were similar.ConclusionThe PRF membrane should be used immediately after formation to maximize release of GF to the surgical site. The remaining fluid can be recovered as an additional source of GF for grafting.