Complexity of Platelet-Rich Plasma: Mechanism of Action, Growth Factor Utilization and Variation in Preparation

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood-derived product utilized nowadays as a treatment for various non-hemostatic, orthopedic, and muscular injuries. Although the exact mechanism of PRP use and effectivity is not yet fully understood, PRP applications are extensively developing and expanding. PRP, as the name implies, contains mostly platelets; thus, platelets are the main players in this therapeutic management for numerous tissue disorders and conditions. Platelets are known to facilitate wound healing and tissue repair through the various growth factors present in their granules. The growth factors in platelets also act on cells found in tissues other than those involved in wound repair, resulting in an increased interest in PRP use as a regenerative therapy for various disorders. In this paper, we discussed platelets and its morphology, and the various growth factors present within the platelet granules. The effects of these growth factors on tissue recovery are highlighted. PRP components, preparation considerations and classifications are presented here to showcase PRP differences and complexity.