The Effect of Autologous and Homologous Platelets-Rich Plasma Gel on Cutaneous Wound Healing In Rescued Donkeys: A Comparative Study

BACKGROUND: Cutaneous wound healing in equine is frequently delayed and complicated. Therefore, a new therapy is needed to achieve rapid and satisfactory healing. Aims: This study aimed to investigate whether the use of autologous PRP gel in cutaneous wounds enhances wound repair and alters oxidative stress cascades than homologous PRP-gel in the rescued donkeys. Methods: 10 rescued donkeys were selected and allocated into two groups A and B. Group-A donkeys (n=5) were treated with APRP-gel, while group-B donkeys (n=5) were treated with HPRP-gel. A full-thickness (4 mm(2)) skin wounds were selected in each donkey. Wound re-epithelialization was assessed by H&E staining and collagen reestablishment was assessed by Masson's trichrome staining. The CAT activity and MDA concentration were assessed in blood samples on days 7, 21, and 36. Results: We observed a significant increase in re-epithelialization, fibroblasts and angiogenesis from days 21 (P < 0.05) to 36 (P < 0.01) in APRP-wounds than HPRP-wounds. Collagen organization in APRP-wounds was good (P<0.05) from days 21 to 36 than HPRP-wounds. Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in APRP-wounds were significantly decreased from day 21 to day 36 compared with HPRP-wounds (P<0.01). There was no difference in catalase (CAT) activity between APRP and HPRP wounds (P>0.05). Conclusion: APRP-wounds improved cutaneous wound healing in rescued donkeys by reducing oxidative stress, speeding wound epithelialization, and developing more structured tissue with interlocking collagen bundles than HPRP wounds. However, further ultrasonography study is required to investigate the effect of PRP gel on cutaneous wound healing in rescued donkeys.