Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026
10:28
Isolation, Expansion, and Adipogenic Induction of CD34+CD31+ Endothelial Cells from Human Omental and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue
Published on: July 17, 2018
Hematopoietic stem cell origin of adipocytes
Yasuhiko Sera1, Amanda C LaRue, Omar Moussa
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29401, USA.
Experimental Hematology
|July 7, 2009
Summary
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) can generate adipocytes, challenging previous beliefs. This discovery opens new avenues for understanding obesity and developing related therapies.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Stem Cell Research
- Hematopoiesis
Background:
- Traditionally, adipocytes were thought to originate from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) through fibroblasts.
- Recent findings suggest fibroblasts/myofibroblasts originate from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hypothesis that HSCs can differentiate into adipocytes.
- To clarify the origin of adipocytes and their relationship with HSCs.
Main Methods:
- Transplantation of single enhanced green fluorescent protein-positive (EGFP(+)) HSCs in mice.
- Primary culture of EGFP(+) bone marrow cells under adipogenic conditions.
- Analysis of adipocyte markers and gene expression.
Main Results:
- EGFP(+) adipocytes were identified in adipose tissues of clonally engrafted mice, expressing key adipocyte markers.
- Rosiglitazone treatment significantly increased the number of EGFP(+) adipocytes.
- Cultured hematopoietic progenitors differentiated into adipocytes, indicating HSCs as a source.
Conclusions:
- This study demonstrates that HSCs can indeed give rise to adipocytes, resolving a scientific controversy.
- The developed primary culture method facilitates research into early adipocytic differentiation mechanisms.
- Findings may contribute to novel therapeutic strategies for obesity.
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