# Anticoagulant-free preparation of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) / fluid platelet-rich fibrin (f-PRF): a pre-clinical comparative performance study

## TL;DR

This study compares a new anticoagulant-free method for preparing platelet-rich fibrin (f-PRF) and shows it works as well as traditional methods but with better volume yield and safety.

## Contribution

A novel anticoagulant-free, single soft-spin centrifugation system for f-PRF preparation is validated for functional equivalence and improved yield.

## Key findings

- Exprecell™ produced 20% more f-PRF volume with high cellular depletion compared to Arthrex ACP®.
- Platelet function and activation were similar between the two systems, with no differences in detectable growth factors.
- EV profiles and in vitro biological activity were comparable, supporting clinical utility of the new method.

## Abstract

This study aimed to validate and characterize the efficacy of a previously developed anticoagulant-free, single soft-spin centrifugation device for the preparation of autologous fluid-Platelet-Rich Fibrin (f-PRF).

f-PRF is generated via one-step soft-spin centrifugation of all blood to produce a platelet-enriched plasma for regenerative medicine use, without the need for additional chemical agents. This study validated the performance of a novel single soft-spin f-PRF preparation system.

Sixteen healthy volunteers (94% female, ages 23-52) donated blood for a comparative analysis between Exprecell™ and Arthrex ACP® Double-Syringe systems. f-PRF was prepared using standardized centrifugation (420xg, 5 min) and characterized for cellular composition, platelet function, growth factors, and extracellular vesicles (EVs). Platelet activation was assessed via P-selectin expression and GPIIb/IIIa activation following stimulation using flow cytometry.

Exprecell™ yielded 20% more f-PRF volume (6.5–10.5 vs. 5.5–9.0 mL) with excellent cellular depletion (>99% erythrocyte, >95% leukocyte reduction). Platelet counts and function were similar between systems, with preserved in vitro agonist responses in terms of P-selectin expression and GPIIb/IIIa activation. Most growth factors remained below detection limits, and those detectable showed no differences between the devices. EV profiles from different cell types were also comparable.

These findings support the Exprecell™ single soft-spin methodology, demonstrating that anticoagulant-free f-PRF preparation achieves functional equivalence to conventional methods while providing a statistically significant increase in volume yield and procedural simplicity. The closed system design reduces contamination risk and Luer-lock compatibility facilitates integration into clinical workflows. Maintained in vitro biological activity supports clinical utility for this innovative point-of-care f-PRF preparation device. Future studies are needed to demonstrate the clinical benefit of the f-PRF obtained.