Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an autologous-derived bioactive material composed of a fibrin scaffold and internal loading of growth factors, platelets, and leukocytes. It promotes vascular regeneration, osteoblast proliferation, and migration, and has immunomodulatory and antibacterial effects. PRF is widely used in bone tissue engineering and dentistry due to its excellent osteogenic potential. However, limitations such as mechanical properties and degradation rate need to be addressed. This paper reviews the development of platelet-rich derivatives, the structure and biological properties of PRF, osteogenic mechanisms, applications, and optimization to broaden its clinical applications. PRF has been shown to enhance the osteoinductive properties and biocompatibility of bone tissue engineering scaffolds, and can also serve as a drug delivery system. The combination of PRF with bone tissue engineering scaffolds significantly improves the quality and quantity of new bone formation.Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an autologous-derived bioactive material composed of a fibrin scaffold and internal loading of growth factors, platelets, and leukocytes. It promotes vascular regeneration, osteoblast proliferation, and migration, and has immunomodulatory and antibacterial effects. PRF is widely used in bone tissue engineering and dentistry due to its excellent osteogenic potential. However, limitations such as mechanical properties and degradation rate need to be addressed. This paper reviews the development of platelet-rich derivatives, the structure and biological properties of PRF, osteogenic mechanisms, applications, and optimization to broaden its clinical applications. PRF has been shown to enhance the osteoinductive properties and biocompatibility of bone tissue engineering scaffolds, and can also serve as a drug delivery system. The combination of PRF with bone tissue engineering scaffolds significantly improves the quality and quantity of new bone formation.