Evaluation of Cervical Healing in a Rat Model Using Alginate Hydrogel Embedded With Platelet-Rich Plasma Publisher Pubmed



Ahmadi E ; Soleymani Mehranjani M ; Afrooghe A ; Zargar A ; Larijani LV ; Hantoushzadeh S ; Kazemi M ; Majidi Zolbin M
Source: Molecular Biology Reports Published:2026

Abstract

Background: External damage is a significant and treatable cause of cervical insufficiency (CI). This study evaluates a controlled-release drug delivery system combining platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with alginate hydrogel (Alg-PRP) to enhance cervical healing in a rat model. Methods: Forty female Wistar rats were assigned to four groups (n = 10): Alg-PRP, PRP, PBS, and healthy control. Cervical injury was induced, and treatments were administered accordingly. Cervical regeneration was assessed using qRT-PCR, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Functional outcomes, including pregnancy rate and number of pups, were also analyzed. Results: Alg-PRP hydrogel exhibited a porous structure, minimal toxicity, and sustained growth factor release. VEGF expression was significantly higher in the Alg-PRP group (p < 0.001), while MMP9 and TGF-β expression were reduced (p < 0.0001, p < 0.001). Collagen I and III levels were lower (p < 0.001, p < 0.05). Masson’s Trichrome staining confirmed reduced fibrosis (p < 0.01). IHC demonstrated increased epithelial thickness, proliferation (p < 0.001, p < 0.0001), and angiogenesis (p < 0.01), alongside decreased fibrosis markers (p < 0.0001). The Alg-PRP group had the highest pregnancy rate (100%) and greater pup numbers. Conclusion: Alg-PRP hydrogel significantly enhances cervical healing and reproductive outcomes, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic for cervical injuries. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2026.