The effect of platelet-rich plasma on ferroptosis of nucleus pulposus cells induced by Erastin

Background: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) has been linked to ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death. The role of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in mitigating ferroptosis in nucleus pulposus (NP) cells within IVDD remains unclear. Purpose: This study aims to verify the effectiveness of PRP in reducing ferroptosis in NP cells induced by Erastin. Methods: Primary NP cells were isolated from SD rats, and a ferroptosis model was established using Erastin. PRP was prepared and applied to assess its impact on ferroptosis-related markers, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), iron content, and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). The effects of PRP on the ultrastructure of NP cells were also observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results: PRP treatment significantly restored GPX4 levels (431.47 ± 4.70 ng/L vs. 69.70 ± 4.06 ng/L, P