Effects of ascorbic acid and cholecalciferol on growth factor release, cytokines, and biomechanical properties of platelet rich fibrin: in vitro study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: This in vitro study evaluates the effects of adding ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) to platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) matrices on growth factor release, cytokine levels, and mechanical properties. METHODS: Twenty healthy volunteers (10 males and 10 females) participated in the study. Seven tubes of venous blood were collected from each participant. Samples were divided into three groups: control (PRF), vitamin C-augmented PRF (VitC-PRF), and vitamin D-augmented PRF (VitD-PRF). All PRF samples were prepared using a standard centrifugation protocol (2700 rpm, 12 min). Growth factors (IGF-1, PDGF, FGF-2, VEGF, TGF-β1) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) were analysed by ELISA at 24 and 72 h. Mechanical properties were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile strength, and elongation tests. RESULTS: The VitC-PRF group demonstrated significantly higher tensile strength and elongation compared to both the control and VitD-PRF groups (p < 0.05). FGF-2 and PDGF levels were highest in the VitD-PRF group, while the control group exhibited the highest levels of IGF-1 and TGF-β1. IL-1β levels were significantly lower in the VitC-PRF group compared to the other groups, with no significant differences in TNF-α levels between groups. CONCLUSIONS: The addition of ascorbic acid and cholecalciferol to PRF enhanced its mechanical properties and exhibited favorable biological effects on growth factors and inflammatory processes. These findings suggest that vitamin-enriched PRF could be a promising approach for optimizing periodontal regeneration.
Source: BMC Oral Health
Institution: Cukurova University
Language: English
Subfield: Urology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,190
OpenAlex ID: W7123353091