Comparative effect of platelet-rich plasma, platelet-poor plasma, and fetal bovine serum on the proliferative response of periodontal ligament cell subpopulations

Objectives: Cell-based therapies involve the need to expand cell cultures ex vivo for their subsequent implantation in an autologous manner. An important limitation regarding this technology is the use of fetal bovine serum (FBS) that has critical safety limitations. Platelet-derived fractions represent an autologous source of growth factors that may be used for the expansion of these cell cultures. Periodontal ligament (PDL) cells comprise a heterogeneous cell population that may not necessarily respond in a uniform manner to proliferative stimuli. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of two platelet-derived fractions, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-poor plasma (PPP) and FBS on the proliferative response of different subpopulations of PDL cell cultures. Materials and methods: PDL cells were characterized and then exposed to PRP, PPP, or FBS during 2, 5, or 14 days to analyze cell proliferation and clonogenic capability. Cell proliferation was evaluated through immunofluorescence for Ki67 and by tracing carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE) dye in combination with mesenchymal stem cell markers using flow cytometry. Results: Both PRP and PPP stimulated PDL cell proliferation and their clonogenic ability. We found a significant increase of CD73- and CD90-positive cells after PRP or PPP treatment, compared to FBS. Otherwise, no differences were found regarding the response of CD146-or CD105-positive cells when stimulated with PRP, PPP, or FBS. Conclusion: PRP and PPP can stimulate the proliferation and clonogenicity of PDL cell populations including cells positive for CD90 and CD73 markers. Clinical relevance: These findings may have implications for future therapies aiming to stimulate periodontal regeneration using autologous growth factors.