The Effect of Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma on Bone Regeneration by Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cells Loaded onto Allogeneic Cancellous Bone Granules

To develop a clinically effective bone regeneration strategy, we compared bone regeneration using allogeneic cancellous bone granule scaffolds loaded with autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) with or without autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Critical-sized segmental bone defects were made at the mid-shaft of both radiuses in 41 New Zealand White rabbits. Small-sized allogeneic cancellous bone granules (300-700 μm in diameter) loaded with BM-MSC were implanted on one side, and PRP was added. On the other side, autologous BM-MSC loaded onto allogeneic cancellous granules were grafted as a control. Bone regeneration was assessed by radiographic evaluation at 4, 8, and 16 weeks postimplantation and by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histological evaluation of the retrieved specimens at 8 and 16 weeks. The experimental group did not show significantly higher bone quantity indices than the control group at any time point. Micro-CT analysis revealed that both groups had similar mean total volumes, surface areas, and other parameters at 8 and 16 weeks. Histological evaluation of 8- and 16-week specimens also showed a similar progression of new bone formation and maturation. In this experiment using a contralateral control group in the same individual, an initial single addition of PRP in allogeneic cancellous bone granules loaded with BM-MSC for critical-sized bone defects in the weight-bearing area did not induce a consequent difference in bone healing. Further research into the optimal preparation and application of PRP is necessary. Furthermore, studies involving a greater number of subjects and larger experimental animals could determine the clinical relevance of PRP treatment.