Platelet-derived Growth Factor Reverses the Effects Induced by NSAIDs on Ulcer Healing

Background: It is known that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use delays the healing of peptic ulcers and that growth factors play an important role in the ulcer healing process.

Aim: To evaluate the effect of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in healing chronic gastric ulcers in rats treated with NSAIDs.

Methods: Chronic gastric ulcers were induced with acetic acid in male Wistar rats and then treated with either aspirin (100 mg/kg/day), indomethacin (2 mg/kg/day), PDGF-BB (0.1 nM/kg/day) or combinations. Gastric secretion and ulcer size, wound contraction, mucosal regeneration and cell proliferation were assessed in histological specimens.

Results: Both aspirin and indomethacin delayed the healing rate of gastric ulcers and reduced ulcer contraction, mucosal regeneration and cell proliferation. All these effects were completely reversed by oral treatment with PDGF-BB without affecting gastric acid secretion.

Conclusion: Oral administration of PDGF accelerates ulcer healing and reverses the effects induced by NSAIDs on ulcer healing without affecting gastric secretion.