Adipose mesenchymal stromal cells: Definition, immunomodulatory properties, mechanical isolation and interest for plastic surgery

Abstract

Ever since their discovery in 2001, adipose mesenchymal stromal cells (ASC) have profoundly modified clinical indications and our practice of plastic surgery, thereby placing our discipline at the forefront of regenerative medicine. These cells act through paracrine signaling by synthesizing immunosuppressive and pro-angiogenic factors. They are of key importance with regard to the regenerative properties of autologously grafted adipose tissue (AT). Taken together, they make up the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) comprising all AT cells except for adipocytes. As our knowledge evolves, we are moving from fat grafting towards SVF grafting, of which the essential sought-after effect is tissue regeneration. The objective of the present review is to synthesize present-day information on ASCs and their immunomodulatory properties and, from a practical standpoint, to indicate present-day and future steps towards establishment of clinical routine, particularly through application of techniques favoring mechanical digestion of adipose tissue.

Keywords: Adipose stem cells; Adipose stromal cells; Cellules souches; Cellules stromales mésenchymateuses du tissu adipeux; Fat grafting; Immunomodulatory properties; Nanofat grafting; Tissu adipeux.