Search Results (768)

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, with pathophysiological mechanisms often involving platelet activation and chronic inflammation. While antiplatelet agents targeting adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-mediated pathways are well established in CVD management, less is known about drug interactions with the platelet-activating factor (PAF) pathway, a key mediator of inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of several commonly used cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory drug classes—including clopidogrel, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), β-blockers, and analgesics—on platelet function via both the ADP and PAF pathways. Using human platelet-rich plasma (hPRP) from healthy donors, we assessed platelet aggregation in response to these two agonists in the absence and presence of graded concentrations of each of these drugs or of their usually prescribed combinations. The study identified differential drug effects on platelet aggregation, with some agents showing pathway-specific activity. Clopidogrel and NSAIDs demonstrated expected antiplatelet effects, while some (not all) antihypertensives exhibited additional anti-inflammatory potential. These findings highlight the relevance of evaluating pharmacological activity beyond traditional targets, particularly in relation to PAF-mediated inflammation and thrombosis. This dual-pathway analysis may contribute to a broader understanding of drug mechanisms and inform the development of more comprehensive therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular, hypertension, and inflammation-driven diseases. Full article

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is widely applied in veterinary regenerative medicine due to its rich composition of growth factors that promote tissue repair. However, the direct pro-angiogenic function of canine PRP (cPRP) has not been thoroughly validated through controlled in vitro and in vivo experimentation. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to assess cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation after exposure to cPRP. In addition, a rabbit corneal micropocket assay was employed to evaluate in vivo angiogenic responses. Treatment with 20% cPRP significantly enhanced HUVEC proliferation and migration and induced robust tube formation. In the in vivo model, we observed dose-dependent neovascularization, with the earliest vascular sprouting seen on day 1 in the 40% group. Both models consistently demonstrated that cPRP stimulates vascular development in a concentration-dependent manner. This study provides novel evidence of cPRP’s capacity to induce neovascularization, supporting its therapeutic value for treating nonhealing wounds in dogs, especially in cases involving chronic inflammation, aging, or immune dysregulation. These findings offer a scientific foundation for the broader clinical application of cPRP in veterinary regenerative practice. Full article

Minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, such as dermal fillers, botulinum toxin injections, autologous fat grafting, intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments, are increasingly popular worldwide due to their convenience and aesthetic benefits. While generally considered safe, these procedures can result in rare but serious ophthalmological complications. The most catastrophic adverse events include central retinal artery occlusion and ischemic optic neuropathy, which may lead to irreversible vision loss. Other complications include diplopia, ptosis, dry eye, and orbital cellulitis, with varying degrees of severity and reversibility. Awareness of potential ocular risks, appropriate patient selection, and adherence to safe injection techniques are crucial for preventing complications. This narrative review summarizes the incidence, mechanisms, clinical features, risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies of ocular complications associated with aesthetic medical procedures. A narrative literature review was conducted, emphasizing data from clinical studies, case series, and expert consensus published between 2015 and 2025. Special attention is given to anatomical danger zones, the pathophysiological pathways of filler embolization, and the roles of hyaluronidase and hyperbaric oxygen therapy in acute management. Although many complications are self-limited or reversible, prompt recognition and intervention are critical to prevent permanent sequelae. The increasing prevalence of these procedures demands enhanced education, informed consent, and interdisciplinary collaboration between aesthetic providers and ophthalmologists. Full article

Background: Oral lichen planus is a chronic, potentially malignant disorder affecting the mucous membrane. As the etiology remains not fully understood, the treatment of this condition is mainly symptomatic, involving corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents, e.g., calcineurin inhibitors. One of the alternative therapeutic approaches includes platelet concentrates, which are autologous bioactive materials. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effects of platelet concentrates in the treatment of oral lichen planus and to compare them to other therapeutic strategies. Methods: The electronic databases PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched for articles published up to 30 March 2025, describing clinical studies focused on oral lichen planus and treatment with platelet concentrates. Results: Fourteen studies describing the effects of oral lichen planus therapy with three types of platelet concentrates (injectable platelet-rich plasma, injectable platelet-rich fibrin, and platelet-rich plasma gel) were included in this review. Comparative strategies included steroids and immunosuppressive agents. The treatment duration ranged from 3 weeks to 2 months. The follow-up period varied from 4 weeks to 6 months. In most of the studies, comparable efficacy was achieved for platelet derivatives and alternative treatments. Two of the studies demonstrated more beneficial effects for platelet concentrates compared to controls, while in one of the studies, more severe adverse reactions were revealed in the platelet group compared to the controls. Conclusions: Autologous platelet concentrates showed comparable efficacy in achieving clinical improvement in patients with oral lichen planus to steroids and immunosuppressive drugs. Platelet derivatives could be considered as an alternative treatment to topical immunosuppressives, especially in steroid-refractory cases. Full article

Background: Chronic wounds represent a persistent clinical challenge and impose a considerable burden on healthcare systems. These lesions often require multidisciplinary management due to underlying factors such as microbial colonization, impaired immunity, and vascular insufficiencies. Regenerative therapies, particularly autologous approaches, have emerged as promising strategies to enhance wound healing. Adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may improve outcomes through paracrine effects and growth factor release. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 31 patients with chronic wounds that were unresponsive to conservative treatment for over six weeks. Clinical and photographic evaluations were employed to monitor healing. All patients underwent surgical debridement, with adjunctive interventions—negative pressure wound therapy, grafting, or flaps—applied as needed. PRP infiltration and/or autologous adipose tissue transfer were administered based on wound characteristics. Wound area reduction was the primary outcome measure. Results: The cohort included 17 males and 14 females (mean age: 59 years). Etiologies included venous insufficiency (39%), diabetes mellitus (25%), arterial insufficiency (16%), and trauma (16%). Most lesions (84%) were located on the lower limbs. All patients received PRP therapy; five underwent combined PRP and fat grafting. Over the study period, 64% of the patients exhibited >80% wound area reduction, with complete healing in 48.3% and a mean healing time of 49 days. Conclusions: PRP therapy proved to be a safe, effective, and adaptable treatment, promoting substantial healing in chronic wounds. Autologous adipose tissue transfer did not confer additional benefit. PRP may warrant inclusion in national treatment protocols. Full article

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most prevalent bacterial infections in women, with high recurrence rates and growing concerns over antimicrobial resistance. The need for alternative or adjunctive therapies has spurred interest in plant-based treatments, which offer antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulatory benefits. This review summarizes the mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and therapeutic potential of various medicinal plants and natural compounds for preventing and treating UTIs in women. Notable candidates include cranberry, bearberry, pomegranate, green tea, and other phytochemicals with proven anti-adhesive and biofilm-disrupting properties. Evidence from clinical trials and meta-analyses supports the role of cranberry natural products and traditional herbal medicines (THMs) in reducing UTI recurrence, especially when combined with antibiotics. Notably, A-type proanthocyanidins in cranberry and arbutin in bearberry are key bioactive compounds that exhibit potent anti-adhesive and biofilm-disrupting properties, offering promising adjunctive strategies for preventing recurrent urinary tract infections. Additionally, emerging therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), show promise in restoring bladder function and reducing infection in women with lower urinary tract dysfunction. Overall, plant-based strategies represent a valuable and well-tolerated complement to conventional therapies and warrant further investigation through high-quality clinical trials to validate their efficacy, safety, and role in personalized UTI management. Full article

Background/Objectives: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is emerging as a safe and effective treatment for facet-mediated pain. Studies have demonstrated reductions in pain and improvements in function, both in the short (3 months) and longer term (6 and 12 months). The mechanisms underlying clinical improvements are largely unknown. It is also unclear whether reported outcomes are due to the PRP administered or concurrently applied rehabilitation. Methods: A prospective case series was conducted in a single, multidisciplinary chronic pain centre. Forty-two participants with chronic WAD and cervical facet-mediated pain who received PRP (64% female; mean age (SD) 42.8 (11.6) years; median WAD duration [IQR] 23 [18,29] mths), attended rehabilitation, and reported successful outcomes 3 months post-PRP fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Measures of pain, cervical isometric strength, and range of motion were collected at baseline and 3 months post-PRP. Mediation analyses were performed to determine how these factors influenced disability. Results: Participants demonstrated clinically significant and relevant improvements in pain, disability, and isometric strength measures (all p < 0.01). Causative mediation analyses demonstrated independent direct, but not indirect, effects of both pain and strength on disability (both p < 0.001), with no direct or indirect effects of cervical ROM on disability. Full article

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a widely used therapeutic product in musculoskeletal treatments due to its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the lack of standardization in PRP preparation protocols hampers clinical consistency. Methods: In this study, the metabolic profiles of 10 different PRP types were compared using untargeted metabolomics via Q-TOF LC–MS. PRP-G and PRP-S were prepared from six donors to assess inter-individual variability, while the remaining types were obtained from a single donor to isolate the impact of preparation method alone. Multivariate analyses, VIP scores, and pathway enrichment analyses were conducted. Results: PRP formulations exhibited distinct metabolic differences associated with inflammatory signaling, redox homeostasis, steroid metabolism, energy production, and platelet activation. Samples from both single- and multi-donor groups showed high intra-group similarity, indicating that preparation method is a major determinant of PRP’s biochemical composition. Conclusion: Metabolomic profiling reveals that even minor differences in PRP preparation protocols can lead to significant biochemical changes that may affect therapeutic outcomes. This study highlights the need for standardized, indication-specific PRP products and underscores the value of metabolomic analysis in guiding optimal formulation selection in clinical practice. Full article

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has become an increasingly valuable biologic approach for personalized regenerative medicine because of its potent anti-inflammatory/healing effects. It is thought to be an excellent source of growth factors that can promote tissue healing and lessen fibrosis. Although this treatment has demonstrated effectiveness in numerous disease areas, its impact on pulmonary fibrosis (PF) caused by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) via its antiapoptotic effects remains to be explored. AgNPs were synthesized biologically by Bacillus megaterium ATCC 55000. AgNP characterization was carried out via UV–Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging to reveal monodispersed spheres with a mean diameter of 45.17 nm. A total of 48 male Wistar rats divided into six groups, with 8 rats per group, were used in the current study on the basis of sample size and power. The groups used were the PRP donor, control, AgNP, AgNP + PRP, AgNP + dexamethasone (Dexa) rat groups, and a recovery group. Body weights, hydroxyproline (HP) levels, and CASP3 and TWIST1 gene expression levels were assessed. H&E and Sirius Red staining were performed. Immunohistochemical studies for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cluster of differentiation 68 (CD68) with histomorphometry were conducted. A significant reduction in body weight (BWt) was noted in the AgNP group compared with the AgNP + PRP group (p < 0.001). HP, CASP3, and TWIST1 expression levels were significantly increased by AgNPs but decreased upon PRP (p < 0.001) treatment. Compared with those in the control group, the adverse effects of AgNPs included PF, lung alveolar collapse, thickening of the interalveolar septa, widespread lymphocytic infiltration, increased alveolar macrophage CD68 expression, and iNOS positivity in the cells lining the alveoli. This work revealed that PRP treatment markedly improved the histopathological and immunohistochemical findings observed in the AgNP group in a manner comparable to that of the Dexa. In conclusion, these results demonstrated the therapeutic potential of PRP in a PF rat model induced via AgNPs. This study revealed that PRP treatment significantly improved the histopathological and immunohistochemical alterations observed in the AgNP-induced group, with effects comparable to those of the Dexa. In conclusion, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential of PRP in a rat model of AgNP-induced PF. Full article

Postprandial dysmetabolism, which refers to the impaired regulation of glucose and lipid levels after meals, is recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Diets rich in polyphenols have demonstrated potential in improving postprandial hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. This study investigates the effects of olive leaf polyphenols on postprandial metabolic outcomes following a high-fat and high-carbohydrate meal. A total of 36 healthy adults participated in a three-arm randomized crossover trial. They ingested either a biscuit made from olive leaf powder (OLB), olive leaf tea (OLT), or a placebo meal (CTRL) to assess the impact of olive leaf polyphenols on postprandial glycemia, lipid levels, platelet aggregation factor (PAF), and plasma antioxidant status (TAC). Although no statistically significant differences were observed in the primary biomarkers, including glucose and lipid profiles, a delayed insulin response was noted in the interventions involving olive leaf. These findings suggest that while acute olive leaf supplementation did not significantly alter postprandial glycemia or lipidemia, it may subtly influence insulin kinetics. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of olive leaf polyphenols on metabolic health, especially in populations at risk for CVDs. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial condition with complex pathophysiology involving tear film instability, ocular surface inflammation, and nerve dysfunction. This review summarizes current evidence on the different available therapies targeting these mechanisms. Methods: A review of clinical studies evaluating treatment outcomes for therapies targeting aqueous tear deficiency, Meibomian gland dysfunction, ocular surface inflammation, and ocular pain was conducted, with an emphasis on randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses where available. Results: Artificial tears provide symptomatic relief with limited impact on tear film stability. Punctal plugs improve tear retention but show variable efficacy across studies. Treatments targeting MGD—such as lipid-based lubricants, eyelid hygiene, thermal pulsation (LipiFlow, iLux), and intense pulsed light (IPL)—demonstrate improvements in gland function, though outcomes vary. Anti-inflammatory agents including cyclosporine, lifitegrast, and short-term corticosteroids improve ocular surface signs, with mixed symptom relief. Biologic therapies like autologous serum tears and platelet-rich plasma show promise for both signs and symptoms, but data remain inconsistent. Nerve-targeted therapies, including oral neuromodulators (gabapentin, antidepressants), botulinum toxin, and transcutaneous nerve stimulation, have shown potential for managing neuropathic ocular pain, although randomized data are limited. Overall, variability in study designs, patient populations, and outcome measures highlights the need for more rigorous research. Conclusions: Personalized, mechanism-based treatment strategies are essential for optimizing outcomes in DED. Future research should prioritize well-designed, controlled studies to clarify the role of emerging therapies and guide the individualized management of this heterogeneous condition. Full article

Background and Objectives: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a prevalent and distressing condition in postmenopausal women, often leading to sexual dysfunction characterized by vaginal dryness, pain, and reduced libido. While local estrogen therapy remains the standard treatment, due to safety concerns and contraindications, there is growing interest in the exploration of alternative interventions. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of intravaginal platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy versus local hormonal treatment in improving sexual function and vaginal health in postmenopausal women. Materials and Methods: A prospective, controlled clinical trial was conducted between January 2023 and December 2024 across three private gynecology clinics in Timișoara, Romania. Ninety postmenopausal women aged between 50 and 65 years with FSFI scores ≤ 23 were randomized into two groups: one receiving three monthly sessions of autologous PRP and the other undergoing 12 weeks of vaginal estriol therapy. Outcomes were assessed using validated tools—the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Vaginal Health Index (VHI), the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I), and patient satisfaction scores—at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Results: Both of the treatment groups demonstrated significant improvements in FSFI and VHI scores at 12 weeks, with the PRP group showing a slightly higher, though not statistically significant, mean increase in the total FSFI (+10.1 vs. +9.3 points). Clinical gains were also observed in lubrication, elasticity, and dyspareunia. Patient satisfaction was high in both groups (93.3% PRP vs. 88.9% hormonal), and there were no reports of serious adverse events during the study period. The PRP group exhibited fewer side effects, without systemic symptoms, supporting its favorable safety profile. Conclusions: PRP therapy is a well-tolerated, hormone-free treatment that offers clinically meaningful improvements in sexual function and vaginal health, comparable to estrogen therapy. It may be particularly beneficial for women with contraindications to hormones or in advanced postmenopause. Further long-term studies are needed to confirm these findings and optimize treatment protocols. Full article

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the plantar fascia, leading to heel pain and reduced mobility. Affecting both athletic and non-athletic populations, it is a leading cause of foot-related medical visits. Conservative treatments, including rest, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections, provide relief for most patients, but a subset experiences persistent symptoms requiring advanced therapies. Emerging biologic treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) therapy, have demonstrated potential in promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation. Recently, MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) have gained attention for their regenerative properties, offering a promising, cell-free therapeutic approach. EVs mediate tissue repair through immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory signaling, and extracellular matrix stabilization. Preclinical studies suggest that EV therapy may improve tendon and ligament healing by promoting M2 macrophage polarization, inhibiting excessive metalloproteinase activity, and enhancing vascular remodeling. This review explores the potential of MSC-EVs as an innovative, non-surgical treatment for plantar fasciitis, addressing their mechanisms of action and current evidence in musculoskeletal regeneration. Full article

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) impact quality of life and present diagnostic and treatment challenges. Biomarkers may serve as an additional tool to support diagnosis and monitor disease progression, offering supplementary information for treatment strategies in specific and selected patients. This systematic review aimed to assess the role of biomarkers in diagnosing TMD and guiding personalized treatment. It also examined key biomarkers linked to chronic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and how therapies affect biomarker levels and clinical outcomes. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify observational and interventional studies assessing the role of biomarkers in synovial fluid/tissue, saliva, and blood. The research was registered in PROSPERO, adhered to PRISMA guidelines, and employed Cochrane Risk of Bias tools. To assess the effect, only studies examining biomarker levels were considered. A total of forty-six studies met the inclusion criteria: three randomized controlled trials were rated as having some concerns, as were most of the observational studies. Elevated levels of interleukins (1ß and 6), tumour necrosis factor alpha, and prostaglandin E2 in synovial fluid were correlated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammation. Increased matrix metalloproteinases (2, 7, and 9) indicated cartilage deterioration, while oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde were higher in TMD patients. Treatments including hyaluronic acid, platelet-rich plasma, and low-level laser therapy effectively reduced inflammatory biomarkers and improved symptoms. Biomarkers show potential to contribute to the understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms in TMD and may support future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for selected patients. After high-quality studies confirm these findings, this approach will enable personalized medicine by tailoring treatments to individual patient profiles, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and quality of life. Full article

This study investigated the impact of increased extraplatelet content on the tissue regenerative capacity of platelet-rich plasma (PRP)-derived fibrin scaffolds. Comparative analyses were performed between a “balanced protein-concentrate plasma” (BPCP) and a standard PRP (sPRP), focusing on platelet and fibrinogen content, scaffold microstructure, and functional performance. Growth factor (GF) release kinetics from the scaffolds were quantified via ELISA over 10 days, while scaffold biomechanics were evaluated through rheological testing, indentation, energy dissipation, adhesion, and assessments of coagulation dynamics, biodegradation, swelling, and retraction. Microstructural analysis was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), with fiber diameter and porosity measurements. The results demonstrated that BPCP scaffolds released significantly higher amounts of GFs and total protein, especially beyond 24 h (* p < 0.05). Despite a delayed coagulation process (** p < 0.01), BPCP scaffolds exhibited superior structural integrity and cushioning behavior (* p < 0.05). SEM revealed thicker fibers in BPCP scaffolds (**** p < 0.0001), while adhesion and biodegradation remained unaffected. Notably, BPCP scaffolds showed reduced retraction after 24 h and maintained their shape stability over two weeks without significant swelling. These findings indicate that enhancing the extraplatelet content in PRP formulations can optimize fibrin scaffold performance. Further preclinical and clinical studies are warranted to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of BPCP-derived scaffolds in regenerative medicine. Full article