Platelet-leukocyte-rich plasma (L-PRP) prevents the collagen III degradation and impairs the bone matrix development in artificial defect of rabbit calvaria, associated with suppression of the immunohistochemical expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9

Introduction and Objective: Because L-PRP constitutes an important source of growth factor that is associated with osteogenesis and fibrogenesis, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of L-PRP on the presence of collagen III and MMP-2 and MMP-9, while comparing these results by means of a histomorphometric analysis of bone matrix and fibrous deposition on bone repair. Material and methods: Four bone defects of 8 × 2 mm were created on the calvaria of 21 rabbits. The surgical defects were treated with either particulate autograft, particulate autograft mixed with L-PRP, or L-PRP alone. Animals were euthanized at 2, 4, and 6 weeks postoperative. Histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to assess repair time, as well as the expression of collagen III and MMPs. Results: In contrast to the results of the L-PRP-free groups, the histomorphometric results of the L-PRP groups demonstrated intense fibrotic deposition along with hindered bone matrix deposition. These results coincided with the larger occurrence of diffuse collagen III deposition and the scarce presence of MMP-2 and -9 spread among the fibrous tissue. Conclusion: Thus, the results suggest that L-PRP not only induces an intense fibrosis rich in collagen III, which is not degraded, but also suppresses MMP-2 and -9 expressions, mimicking a similar pathological event as that of a cleft-palate or cranial suture.