Investigating the role of PDGF as a potential drug therapy in bone formation and fracture healing

Background: Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) has been shown in vivo to increase bone formation and supplement fracture healing, and may have a role as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of bone loss and fracture healing in humans. Objective: A comprehensive review of the recent literature on the effect of PDGF on bone mineral density and fracture healing. Methods: In vitro and in vivo evidence was systematically collected using medical search engines MEDLINE/OVID (1950 to March 2008) and EMBASE (1980 to March 2008) databases. Results/conclusion: Evidence to date suggests that PDGF-BB, and to a lesser extent PDGF-AA, may have potential therapeutic use in the treatment of osteoporosis and bone healing in humans. Additionally, by targeting α-receptors on osteoblasts, a potential anabolic effect on bone metabolism in humans can be anticipated; however, more research needs to be done to assess the role of β-receptors in human bone.