Injectable platelet-rich plasma-based hydrogels: a controlled release platform for growth factors and cardiac regeneration post-myocardial infarction

Abstract Myocardial Infarction (MI) is a leading cause of high global cardiovascular mortality and disability. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), as a widely available autologous biological product rich in various growth factors, holds significant potential for promoting tissue healing and regeneration. However, its clinical application is limited by short in vivo retention time and transient therapeutic effects, necessitating the development of novel drug delivery systems to enhance its clinical value. In this study, a novel injectable PRP-gel composite was developed. Based on the Schiff base reaction, the composite gel exhibits excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, appropriate mechanical properties, and enables controlled release of multiple growth factors from PRP. Results at 28 days post-intramyocardial injection demonstrated that, compared with the control group, the PRP-gel composite effectively promoted angiogenesis, inhibited cardiac cell apoptosis and injury, significantly reduced infarct size, decreased myocardial fibrosis, and preserved ventricular wall thickness, ultimately leading to a marked improvement in cardiac function. In summary, the composite gel developed in this study provides an optimized strategy for the clinical application of PRP and represents a promising therapeutic approach for myocardial regeneration following MI.