Time-dependent cytokine-release of platelet-rich plasma in 3-chamber co-culture device and conventional culture well

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains bioactive cytokines to enhance tissue healing. The best PRP preparation protocol and timing of the treatment have not been determined yet. To screen the best-fit PRP, a 3-chamber co-culture device was developed. We hypothesized the concentrations of the cytokines from different PRPs in the co-culture plates had a high correlation with those in conventional 24-well culture plates at different time points. The concentrations of the cytokine from PRPs would be correlated with platelet concentrations. The correlation of transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) and platelet-derived growth factor AB (PDGF-AB) in both devices were compared at 0, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h from two PRPs as well as that of platelet and cytokines concentrations. The results revealed that there was a moderate to high correlation in TGF-β1 concentrations between the 3-chamber co-culture and conventional culture device until 96 h. The correlation of PDGF-AB concentrations in both devices had moderate to high correlation in the first 24 h, and then it became modestly correlated from 48 to 96 h. A high correlation was found between platelet and TGF-β1 concentration at 96 h. However, they were modestly correlated in other time points. A negative or modest correlation was found between platelet and PDGF-AB concentration in all time points. In conclusion, TGF-β1 and PDGF-AB revealed a time-dependent manner of release at five time points. There is a moderate to high correlation of the TGF-β1 and PDGF-AB concentration in both devices at different time points. However, TGF-β1 and PDGF-AB concentrations are not always proportional to the platelet concentration of the PRPs.