Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) from Diverse Biological Sources: Comparative Biochemistry, Biotechnological Production, and Translational Potential

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) has emerged as a promising bioactive biomaterial with broad applications in regenerative medicine because of its anti-inflammatory, angiogenic, and tissue-repair properties. Traditionally obtained from salmonid sperm DNA, it has been reported to promote tissue regeneration primarily by activating adenosine A2A receptors and the nucleotide salvage pathway, thereby stimulating fibroblast proliferation, extracellular matrix remodeling, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biochemical characteristics, mechanisms of action, extraction methods, and translational potential of PDRN from different biological sources. In addition to conventional animal-derived PDRN, recent advances have introduced plant-derived (PhytoPDRN) and microbial- or algae-derived alternatives, offering improved sustainability, scalability, and reduced environmental impact. Preliminary in vitro evidence suggests that these emerging sources may exhibit regenerative and antioxidant activities; however, differences in molecular characteristics, experimental models, and study designs currently preclude establishing biological or clinical equivalence with salmon-derived PDRN. Finally, the translational perspectives, industrial challenges, and future research directions are analyzed, highlighting the need for standardized manufacturing processes, comparative clinical trials, and sustainable production strategies. Overall, PDRN is a DNA-derived biomaterial of growing interest in regenerative medicine and cosmetic applications. At the same time, novel biological sources may contribute to the development of more sustainable and clinically effective next-generation PDRN-based therapies.