Autologous Exosomes From Platelet-rich Plasma as a Modern Tool of Regenerative Medicine - Assessment of Content and Therapeutic Potential in the Process of Temporomandibular Joint Regeneration

The research focuses on the laboratory assessment of the content and the regenerative and anti-inflammatory potential of autologous exosomes from platelet-rich plasma, as well as their comparison with other autologous products used in intra-articular injections (PRP, PRF).

The work will include:

1. Production of autologous materials (PRP, PRF, EXO); appropriate centrifuges and the AutologIX system (Biological Innovations) will be used for isolation.
2. Characterization of physico-chemical properties of EXO (concentration, size, morphology), using analytical methods such as nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
3. Analysis of content using flow cytometry and spectrophotometry.
4. Assessment of uptake by cells (using confocal microscopy) and promotion of proliferation and migration of human chondrocytes and fibroblasts.
5. Comparative analysis of the results obtained (1) for the study and control groups and (2) for PRP, PRF, and EXO.

The implementation of the project will constitute a significant contribution to the development of knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of the regenerative action of plasma-derived exosomes. The obtained results will allow a better understanding of the action of the evaluated systems, and, consequently, better effects of intra-articular injections through the optimal selection of autologous injection material. It should be emphasized that autologous injection therapies are safe for patients and are associated with the lowest risk of complications among all injection therapies used in the treatment of TMJ disorders, which is why their precise investigation is very important.