Effect of platelet-rich plasma on the implant bone defects in rabbits through FAK/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Abstract

Objective: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) has been shown to be a beneficial growth factor for bone tissue healing and used in implantology. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of PRP in bone defects in rabbits. Methods: Twenty rabbits were used to establish the implant bone defects model in this study. An intrabony defect (5 mm × 5 mm × 3 mm) was created in alveolar bone of lower jar of each rabbit. The wound was treated with PRP. The expression of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor BB (PDGFBB) was assessed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) and related Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K)/AKT (protein kinase B) were measured by Western blot. Results: The results showed that PRP could significantly improve the bone healing process when compared with control, meanwhile 10% PRP could markedly increase fibroblast 48 h post treatment. PDGFBB was higher in PRP group than that in control group. PRP treatment also could elevate the phosphorylation of FAK and PI3K/AKT, however the inhibitor of PDGFR could reverse this trend. Conclusion: The results suggested PRP treatment improves the bone healing process through the FAK/ PI3K/AKT pathway.