Bio-functional porous PLA microspheres: an in-vitro study of a platform for plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) delivery

Effective management of acute and chronic wounds remains a major clinical challenge, driving the need for innovative therapeutic approaches. Plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF), an autologous and bioactive fraction of platelet-rich plasma, has emerged as a promising agent for stimulating tissue repair and angiogenesis. In this study, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) microparticles loaded with PRGF were developed via a double emulsion (water-in-oil-in-water, W/O/W) solvent evaporation technique. Processing parameters, including synthesis and drying conditions, were optimized to yield a porous microparticle architecture conducive to controlled release. Morphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy confirmed the formation of uniformly spherical microparticles (PLMs) with an average diameter of 26.51 ± 7.86 µm and a mean pore size of 2.79 ± 0.55 µm. In-vitro release profiles demonstrated sustained PRGF release over a period of more than 17 days. Additionally, cell-based assays revealed that the PRGF-loaded PLMs effectively supported the proliferation, adhesion, and migration of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). These results highlight the potential of PRGF-loaded PLA microparticles as a biocompatible and long-acting platform for advanced wound healing and regenerative medicine applications.