Delivery systems for platelet derived growth factors in wound healing: A review of recent developments and global patent landscape

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous concentration of human platelets in a small volume of plasma. PRP has displayed remarkable therapeutic potential in promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration. The significance behind its use lies in the abundance of growth factors (GF) in the PRP concentrate. These factors are shown to regulate cell migration, attachment, proliferation, differentiation, and promote extracellular matrix accumulation in the wound healing process. Furthermore, its endogenous and autologous nature renders them biocompatible and biodegradable to host tissues. However, GFs suffer from a short half-life as they are susceptible to degradation by proteolytic enzymes. GFs need to be administered frequently to exert their therapeutic effects and this shortcoming has limited their clinical efficacy. To overcome such challenges, novel drug delivery systems are sought to stabilize them as well as to allow their controlled release in sufficient doses at specific sites without affecting their therapeutic efficacy. The clinical value of PRP relies on effective delivery systems which maximize their therapeutic benefit. This review shed light on the recent advancements in delivery systems for platelet derived growth factors with regards to wound healing applications. In addition, the current findings of PRP-based therapy and patent status of PRP centered drug delivery systems are also highlighted. This review hopes to stimulate ideas and encourage researchers to identify future avenues worth investigating in the field of PRP therapy.