INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE: PLATELET-RICH PLASMA FOR OVARIAN REJUVENATION AND INFERTILITY - A NARRATIVE REVIEW
Abstract
Introduction and purpose: Regenerative medicine has introduced new biological strategies to improve ovarian function in women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Among them, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) - a concentrate of platelets derived from the patient’s own blood - has gained interest for its potential to stimulate follicular growth and enhance reproductive capacity. PRP contains various growth factors and cytokines that promote angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and tissue repair. This review summarizes current evidence regarding PRP’s mechanisms of action, clinical effects, and safety in the context of ovarian rejuvenation.
State of knowledge: PRP is obtained by centrifuging autologous blood to increase platelet concentration, followed by activation using agents such as calcium chloride or thrombin. Once activated, platelets release growth factors including PDGF, VEGF, EGF, IGF, and TGF-β, which are involved in tissue regeneration and modulation of inflammation. When injected into the ovaries, PRP may stimulate dormant follicles, improve blood flow, and alter the ovarian microenvironment via anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Early clinical studies report encouraging outcomes such as improved ovarian reserve markers and pregnancy rates.
Conclusions: PRP therapy is a promising, minimally invasive technique with potential to support ovarian function in selected patients with POI or DOR. Its use is biologically justified by the regenerative properties of platelet-derived factors. Nevertheless, due to limited and low-quality evidence, as well as a lack of standardized preparation and administration protocols, PRP cannot yet be recommended as routine treatment.
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