Optimization of a Plasma Rich in Growth Factors Membrane for the Treatment of Inflammatory Ocular Diseases

The main purpose of the present study is to develop an immunosafe fibrin membrane obtained by plasma rich in growth factors technology (is-mPRGF) with improved mechanical properties that could be applied in patients with inflammatory ocular diseases. Blood was drawn from three healthy donors and centrifuged, and the collected PRGF was activated and distributed into two groups: (i) mPRGF: a PRGF membrane maintained at 37 degrees C for 30 min; (ii) IS5+30: mPRGF incubated at 37 degrees C for 5 min and then incubated at 56 degrees C for 30 min. The content of both membranes was analyzed for several growth factors such as IgE and the complement activation, as well as biological activity on different ocular surface cells. Furthermore, the physical and mechanical characterizations were also evaluated. IS5+30 completely reduced the complement activity and decreased the IgE while preserving the concentration of the main growth factors. IS5+30 induced similar biological activity regarding mPRGF on the different ocular surface cells analyzed. Furthermore, no significant differences in release kinetics or fibrin degradation were observed between both membranes. Summarizing, IS5+30 totally reduces complement activity while preserving the concentration of most growth factors and their biological activity. Furthermore, the physical and mechanical properties of the fibrin membrane are preserved after heat inactivation.

Automated summary

The main purpose of this study was to develop an immunosafe fibrin membrane with improved mechanical properties for patients with inflammatory ocular diseases. The PRGF obtained from healthy donors was divided into two groups and analyzed for growth factors, complement activity, and biological activity on ocular surface cells. The results showed that IS5+30 reduced complement activity, decreased IgE levels, and preserved the concentration and biological activity of growth factors. Additionally, the physical and mechanical properties of the fibrin membrane were maintained after heat inactivation.