The Combined Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma and Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Regeneration of Irradiated Submandibular Salivary Gland (An Experimental Animal Study)

Abstract

Salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia are common in patients receiving radiotherapy to the head and neck region. Radiotherapy causes direct damage to the acinar and drfuctal cells, the surrounding vasculature and nerves. Multiple intervebntions have been developed for the treatment hof salivary gland hypofunction. Rapid and effective intervention is necessary to avoid early loss of the secretory function of the gland. In the last years, SCs offered great promise for medical treatments due to their ability to self-renew, prolriferate and differentiate into many cell types. The efficacy of BM-MSCs-based therapy had been proved in many studies. PRP had received significant attention in the medical field due to its favorable findings that led to its widespread use. It is a concentrated source of growth factors that enhance tissue regeneration and repair. The present study aimed to assess the regenerative potential of PRP combined with BM-MSCs transplantation locally in gamma irradiated submandibular SG of albino rats. The study utilized seventy four adult male albino rats weighing between 150-200 grams that were housed following the housing regulations and all aspects of animal care in the Animal House of the Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University. The study depended on histopathological examination using H&E stained sections, immunohistochemical examination using PCNA and CD31 stained sections, histochemical examination using PSR stain and statistical analysis to assess the regenerative potential of PRP and BM-MSCs.