In vitro antibacterial activity of platelet-rich plasma against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is known as an autologous biological agent that can immensely promote wound healing. Bacterial infection is a common complication of wounds which obstructs wound healing. However, the effect of PRP on bacteria is still inconclusive. This in vitro study evaluated the antibacterial activity of PRP, platelet-poor plasma (PPP) and Frozen-PRP (Fro-PRP) against Escherichia coli , Klebsiella pneumoniae , Enterobacter cloacae , Staphylococcus aureus , and Enterococcus faecalis . The antimicrobial activity was performed using modified agar diffusion method, colony-forming units counting test, and bacterial growth curve analysis. The results showed that PRP, PPP and Fro-PRP had antimicrobial effects on five bacterial strains including Escherichia coli , Klebsiella pneumoniae , Enterobacter cloacae , Staphylococcus aureus , and Enterococcus faecalis . The antimicrobial activity of PRP was significantly stronger than that of Fro-PRP and PPP. To a certain extent, frozen storage may reduce the antibacterial ability of PRP. Overall, our study demonstrates that PRP and other platelet derived products seem to be a promising alternative tool for infected wounds treatment.