Platelet-rich plasma-derived extracellular vesicles improve liver cirrhosis in mice.

Introduction: Cirrhosis remains a significant clinical challenge due to its poor prognosis and limited treatment options, creating a high unmet medical need for the development of novel therapies. In this study, we analyzed the effects of a novel approach to treat cirrhosis using platelet-rich plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (PRPEV) in mice.

Methods: PRPEV were collected from platelet-rich plasma using ultrafiltration, and their proteomes were analyzed. The carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced cirrhosis model of mice was used to evaluate the effect of PRPEV administration and compared with the control group (n = 8). In vitro and in vivo mechanistic analyses of PRPEV administration were confirmed using real time-PCR and immunostaining.

Results: Gene ontology analysis based on the proteome revealed that PRPEV contain many factors associated with EV and immune responses. In vitro, PRPEV polarize macrophages into an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Following PRPEV administration, there was a decrease in serum alanine aminotransferase levels and reduction in liver fibrosis, while mRNA levels of regenerative factors were upregulated and transforming growth factor β-1 was downregulated. Furthermore, the number of anti-inflammatory macrophages in the liver increased.

Conclusions: PRPEV may contribute to hepatocyte proliferation, anti-inflammation, and anti-fibrogenesis in the liver. This novel concept paves the way for cirrhosis treatment.