(131) Platelet Rich Plasma: Evaluation of Growth Factor Concentration in Men with ED

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a novel restorative therapy rich in growth factors and cytokines used to target the underlying causes of erectile dysfunction (ED). It is not known, however, if the composition of growth factors in PRP varies between men. Objective This study aimed to evaluate PRP growth factor variability among men with ED. Methods Whole blood was collected from sixteen men, eight participants with at least a six-month history of ED. The others were the control group, including seven men with Peyronie’s Disease (PD) and one healthy man without sexual dysfunction. PRP was extracted from whole blood using the Arthrex Angel system. A Human Growth Factor Antibody Array for 41 proteins was performed. Using all 16 samples, quantitative detection of GM-CSF, VEGF, and TGF-β were validated by western blot. Results From the growth factor array, two growth factors - Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) - were identified as having a 1.5-fold decrease between the participants and the control. In addition to the shortlisted growth factors, VEGF was selected because androgens can upregulate VEGF production. Other than a weak negative correlation between VEGF expression and age, we found no correlation between growth factor expression for GM-CSF or TGF-β and age, BMI, or comorbidities. Conclusions PRP growth factor concentration appears to vary among men with ED. Depending on individual growth factor concentration, PRP treatment for ED may need to be personalized for patients. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Acerus Pharmaceuticals, Boston Scientific, Coloplast, Endo Pharmaceuticals, Empower Pharmacy, Nestle Health, Olympus, Hims, Inc.