PDRN CarePlatelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Dr. Sarah Chen
PhD, Molecular Biology
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood product prepared by concentrating platelets from a patient's own blood to levels 3 to 5 times above baseline [1].
Definition
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood product prepared by concentrating platelets from a patient's own blood to levels 3 to 5 times above baseline [1]. Platelets contain alpha granules loaded with growth factors β including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and epidermal growth factor (EGF) β that orchestrate tissue repair and regeneration when released upon platelet activation [1][5]. In aesthetic dermatology, PRP is widely used for facial rejuvenation, scar improvement, and androgenetic alopecia treatment [2].
How PRP Is Prepared
Blood Collection and Centrifugation
PRP preparation begins with drawing 10 to 60 mL of venous blood from the patient into tubes containing an anticoagulant (typically sodium citrate or acid-citrate-dextrose) [5]. The blood undergoes one or two rounds of centrifugation to separate its components by density. Red blood cells settle to the bottom, a buffy coat of white blood cells and platelets forms in the middle, and platelet-poor plasma rises to the top [5]. The platelet-rich layer is carefully extracted, yielding a concentrate with platelet counts of 1,000,000 per microliter or higher, compared to a normal blood count of roughly 150,000 to 400,000 per microliter [1].
Activation
Before injection, PRP may be activated with calcium chloride, thrombin, or a combination of both, which triggers platelet degranulation and the release of stored growth factors [1][5]. Some practitioners prefer to inject PRP without exogenous activation, relying on tissue collagen at the injection site to trigger natural platelet activation.
Mechanisms of Action
Upon activation, PRP platelets release over 300 bioactive proteins from their alpha granules [1]. The key growth factors driving PRP's therapeutic effects include:
- PDGF β Recruits and stimulates proliferation of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells [1]
- TGF-beta β Promotes extracellular matrix synthesis including collagen and fibronectin production [1]
- VEGF β Stimulates angiogenesis and improves tissue perfusion [1][2]
- EGF β Accelerates keratinocyte proliferation and re-epithelialization [1]
- IGF-1 β Enhances cell growth and inhibits apoptosis [1]
These growth factors work in concert to stimulate fibroblast activity, promote neocollagenesis, improve tissue vascularity, and accelerate wound healing [2].
PRP and PDRN: Complementary Synergy
PRP and PDRN operate through distinct but complementary regenerative mechanisms, and their combination has shown enhanced therapeutic outcomes compared to either agent alone [3][4]:
Different Pathways, Shared Goals
PRP provides a concentrated burst of growth factors that signal cells to proliferate, migrate, and synthesize new matrix [1]. PDRN activates the adenosine A2A receptor pathway and supplies nucleotide building blocks through the salvage pathway [4]. While PRP tells cells what to do, PDRN provides the molecular raw materials cells need to execute those instructions β the purines and pyrimidines required for DNA synthesis during cell division [4].
Anti-Inflammatory Balance
PRP contains both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and the net inflammatory effect can vary between patients [2]. PDRN's consistent anti-inflammatory action through A2A receptor activation provides a reliable dampening of excessive inflammation, creating a more controlled regenerative environment when combined with PRP [3][4].
Enhanced Wound Healing
Studies in diabetic wound models have demonstrated that combined PRP and PDRN treatment produces superior angiogenesis, faster wound closure, and improved collagen organization compared to either therapy alone [3]. The growth factor signaling from PRP synergizes with PDRN's nucleotide supply and anti-inflammatory effects to accelerate all phases of tissue repair.
Clinical Applications
In aesthetic practice, PRP is commonly used for [2]:
- Facial rejuvenation β Intradermal or subdermal injections improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity over 2 to 3 treatment sessions
- Hair restoration β Scalp injections stimulate dermal papilla cells and prolong the hair growth (anagen) phase
- Scar revision β PRP combined with microneedling or laser enhances remodeling of atrophic acne scars
- Post-procedure recovery β Applied after laser resurfacing or chemical peels to accelerate healing
When PDRN is added to PRP protocols β either as a simultaneous injection or in alternating sessions β practitioners report improved tissue quality, reduced downtime, and more sustained results [3].
References
- [1]Marx RE. Platelet-rich plasma: evidence to support its use. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2004;62(4):489-496. doi:10.1016/j.joms.2003.12.003
- [2]Leo MS, Kumar AS, Kirit R, Konathan R, Sivamani RK. Systematic review of the use of platelet-rich plasma in aesthetic dermatology. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2015;14(4):315-323. doi:10.1111/jocd.12167
- [3]Kim JH, Park YB, Jeong JY, et al.. Combined treatment with PDRN and PRP enhances wound healing in diabetic rats. J Wound Care. 2021;30(3):198-207.
- [4]Squadrito F, Bitto A, Irrera N, et al.. Pharmacological Activity and Clinical Use of PDRN. Curr Pharm Des. 2017;23(27):3948-3957. doi:10.2174/1381612823666170516153716
- [5]Dhurat R, Sukesh M. Principles and Methods of Preparation of Platelet-Rich Plasma: A Review and Author's Perspective. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2014;7(4):189-197. doi:10.4103/0974-2077.150734