Effects of platelet-rich fibrin on experimentally induced corneal wounds in rats

Background Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an autologous biomaterial rich in growth factors that can support tissue regeneration. Its effects on corneal wound healing, particularly in terms of shape and thickness, remain unclear. Aim This study aimed to evaluate the healing efficacy of PRF in experimentally created corneal wounds in rats using morphological, histological, and immunological assessments. Methods Fifty-four male Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups after corneal defects: 2 mm PRF + tarsorrhaphy, 5 mm PRF + tarsorrhaphy and sham (tarsorrhaphy only). PRF was applied in free form. Wound closure was measured at 24, 48, and 72 h using fluorescent staining. Histopathology and cytokines (EGF, TNF- α , IL-6, IL-10) were evaluated. Results Wound areas decreased in all groups, and there was no significant difference between PRF and control corneas ( p > 0.05). EGF increased at 24 h in the 2 mm group and remained high up to 72 h. TNF- α and IL-6 were higher in the 5 mm group at 48–72 h, while IL-10 increased with PRF thickness but did not suppress inflammation. Histopathological examination showed that epithelial regeneration was almost complete in the control corneas, while stromal edema, inflammatory infiltration, and neovascularization were observed in the PRF-treated corneas, especially in the 5 mm group. Conclusion Free-form PRF did not increase epithelial closure in rat corneal wounds and triggered a thickness-dependent inflammatory response; this indicates that PRF thickness must be carefully evaluated in ocular applications.