platelet-rich plasma (Andrews Research & Education Foundation)

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an investigational autologous biologic therapy being evaluated by the Andrews Research & Education Foundation for the treatment of acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. Prepared from the patient's own peripheral blood, PRP contains a concentrated population of platelets and associated growth factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). The therapy is administered via intra-articular injection following joint aspiration, specifically in the acute phase post-injury and prior to surgical reconstruction. The biological mechanism involves the release of bioactive proteins from platelet α-granules, which modulate the intra-articular inflammatory environment and promote tissue healing. The primary objective of its use in this context, as seen in clinical trial NCT03389685, is to reduce pro-inflammatory and chondrodegenerative biomarkers, thereby potentially decreasing the long-term risk of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

Other names

PRPautologous platelet-rich plasma