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The following is a summary of “Platelet-Released Growth Factors (PRGFs) Activate NRF2-ARE and Modulate Inflammatory Response in an NRF2-Dependent Manner in Primary Human Keratinocytes,” published in the May 2025 issue of Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology by Stein et al. 

Platelet-derived products like Platelet-released-growth factors (PRGF) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) had been used in regenerative and aesthetic therapies, but limited data existed on their effects on nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)-ARE and NF-κB pathway activation.  

Researchers conducted a retrospective study to determine whether PRGF activated NRF2 and contributed to the anti-inflammatory effects of Platelet-released-growth factors/platelet-rich plasma in an in vitro primary human keratinocyte model.  

They analyzed NRF2 activation through NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase1 (NQO1) and heme-oxygenase 1 (HO-1) western blotting, gene expression, and ARE promoter assay using luciferase-based reporter gene techniques in patient-derived keratinocytes. The NF-κB response was assessed by treating cells with PRGF and TNF-α. Inflammatory markers IL-1β, IL-4, IL-10, TNF-α, and IL-6 were measured in the supernatant using ELISAs. Additional NF-κB activity was evaluated via luciferase reporter assays and phosphorylated NF-κB western blotting and NRF2’s role was examined by applying the NRF2 inhibitor ML-385.  

The results showed a significant increase in ARE activity in keratinocytes treated with PRGF, which led to elevated protein levels of NQO1 and HO-1. Inflammatory interleukin secretion was found to correlate with the availability of NRF2.  

Investigators concluded that PRGFs activated NRF2 target proteins and downregulated NF-κB-associated inflammation through an NRF2-dependent mechanism, suggesting their potential as an anti-inflammatory treatment following medical aesthetic procedures. 

Source: onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.70228