Quality Optimization and Mechanistic Analysis of Autologous Blood Therapies for Osteoarthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease with limited treatment options. Autologous blood products such as Autologous Conditioned Serum (ACS), Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) represent promising therapeutic approaches; however, their clinical efficacy is highly variable due to a lack of standardization and an incomplete understanding of their mechanisms of action. The primary goal of this project is therefore to close this gap through a systematic, comparative approach. To this end, manufacturing protocols for ACS and PRF will be optimized on the IMPACT platform, the products will be comprehensively characterized on a molecular and cellular level, and evaluated in a direct head-to-head comparison with PRP. The functional efficacy of the optimized preparations on inflammatory and regenerative processes will be investigated in an established in-vitro inflammation model (a co-culture of chondrocytes and macrophages). A special focus is placed on the mechanistic elucidation of the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as mediators of the therapeutic effects. Expected outcomes include the identification of the most potent blood derivative, the establishment of evidence-based, standardized protocols, and a deep understanding of the underlying mechanisms of action. The project will strengthen the R&D location of Lower Austria in the future-oriented field of 'Smart Vitality' and will create the scientific foundation for more effective, personalized OA therapies.