Antibacterial Activity of Leukocyte- and Platelet-Rich Plasma: An<i>In Vitro</i>Study

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the leukocyte- and platelet-rich plasma (L-PRP) antimicrobial activity. The studied sample comprised 20 healthy males. The L-PRP gel, liquid L-PRP, and thrombin samples were tested <i>in vitro</i> for their antibacterial properties against selected bacterial strains using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Two types of thrombin were used (autologous and bovine). Zones of inhibition produced by L-PRP ranged between 6 and 18 mm in diameter. L-PRP inhibited the growth of <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> (MRSA and MSSA strains) and was also active against <i>Enterococcus faecalis</i> and <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i>. There was no activity against <i>Escherichia coli</i> and <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i>. The statistically significant increase of L-PRP antimicrobial effect was noted with the use of major volume of thrombin as an activator. Additionally, in groups where a bovine thrombin mixture was added to L-PRP the zones of inhibition concerning MRSA, <i>Enterococcus faecalis</i>, and <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> were larger than in the groups with autologous thrombin. Based on the conducted studies, it can be determined that L-PRP can evoke <i>in vitro</i> antimicrobial effects and might be used to treat selected infections in the clinical field. The major volume of thrombin as an activator increases the strength of the L-PRP antimicrobial effect.