Abstract
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous source of platelet-derived growth factors, and has been used successfully in oral surgery repair and in the placement of osseointegrated implants. However, little is known about the underlying release mechanisms of these factors or the manner in which inhibition of osteoclastic cells is regulated. The present study investigated the efficacy of PRP as an inhibitor of receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL)-induced TRAP-positive multinucleated cell formation in RAW264.7 cells. RANKL-induced formation of osteoclasts was significantly inhibited by treatment with PRP, while washed platelet treatment was more effective in inhibiting osteoclast formation. These results suggest that PRP and washed platelets are potent inhibitors of osteoclast differentiation.