Intralesional platelet-rich plasma injection promotes tongue regeneration following partial glossectomy in a murine model.

Background: We examined the regenerative efficacy of the activated platelet-rich plasma (PRP) concentrate administered by local injection in an animal model mimicking partial glossectomy for tongue cancer.

Methods: Four-week-old mice were randomized to four groups; (1) a treatment-naïve control group, (2) a PRP group, (3) a hemiglossectomy group, and (4) a hemiglossectomy + PRP group. The activated PRP concentrate was injected into the deep layer of resected surfaces of mouse tongues immediately after excision, and tongue widths and lengths were measured on postoperative days (POD) 5 and 12. Gross tongue morphologies and microscopic findings were investigated. Inflammation and fibrous tissue areas were also measured, and immunohistochemical analysis was performed for c-kit, neurofilament, and S-100.

Results: The activated PRP concentrate reduced wound scar contracture, promoted wound healing, and reduced inflammation and wound fibrosis. On POD 12, histologic findings in the hemiglossectomy + PRP group were similar to those in the normal control group, and the intensity of stem cell factor receptor c-kit expression was also significantly greater in the PRP group than in the hemiglossectomy group on POD 12. Immunohistochemical staining revealed S100 and neurofilament expressions in the hemiglossectomy + PRP group were significantly more intense than in the hemiglossectomy group.

Conclusion: Intralesional activated PRP concentrate injection has potential use for tongue regeneration, wound healing, and neural regeneration with minimal scarring after partial glossectomy.