Autologous platelet concentrates for pulp and dentin regeneration: a literature review of animal studies

Introduction The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) in promoting pulp and dentin regeneration in animal models. Methods An electronic search was performed on MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, SciELO, LILACS, and CENTRAL. Animal studies using APC as a root filling material after pulpectomy in mature or immature teeth were included. Articles underwent risk of bias assessment. Histologic evaluation of intracanal neoformed tissue was the primary outcome; root development, root wall thickening, apical closure, and periapical healing in apical periodontitis were the secondary outcomes. Results Seven articles were included. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was used as root filling material during regenerative procedures in the experimental group in either mature or immature teeth. After revascularization with PRP alone or in conjunction with stem cells of a different source, the histologic analyses revealed that, in addition to an odontoblastic cell layer or dentinlike structure, the neoformed intracanal tissues were mainly cementumlike, bonelike, and connective tissues. Conclusions True regeneration of necrotic pulp may not be achieved with current techniques using PRP, all of which stimulated tissue repair. Benefits of PRP adjunct for pulp tissue regeneration in preclinical studies remain unclear. Further studies with standardized protocols are necessary to assess the actual contribution of PRP in endodontic regenerative therapies.