Platelet-rich plasma and chronic wounds: remaining fibronectin may influence matrix remodeling and regeneration success

Abstract

Background: Platelet-rich plasma has been largely used as a therapeutic option for the treatment of chronic wounds of different etiologies. The enhanced regeneration observed after the use of platelet-rich plasma has been systematically attributed to the growth factors that are present inside platelets' granules.

Aim: We hypothesize that the remaining plasma and platelet-bound fibronectin may act as a further bioactive protein in platelet-rich plasma preparations.

Methods: Recent reports were analyzed and presented as direct evidences of this hypotheses.

Results: Fibronectin may directly influence the extracellular matrix remodeling during wound repair. This effect is probably through matrix metalloproteinase expression, thus exerting an extra effect on chronic wound regeneration.

Conclusions: Physicians should be well aware of the possible fibronectin-induced effects in their future endeavors with PRP in chronic wound treatment.

Keywords: MMP; PRP; chronic wounds; extracellular matrix; fibronectin; platelet-rich plasma; wound regeneration.