In vitro adult rat adipose tissue-derived stromal cell isolation and differentiation

Mesenchymal stromal cell research has advanced significantly over the last decade, especially in the area of adult adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs). There are significant species differences in ASC harvest, as well as in vitro doubling time and differentiation. Selection of appropriate animal models for preclinical evaluations is critical for optimization and validation of ASC therapeutic effects. As such, in vitro studies are necessary precursors to in vivo ASC applications. Additionally, to elucidate environmental, disease, or trauma effects on native stromal cell populations, characterization of cells from unexposed individuals is necessary. Rats are an established immunocompetent small animal model for a large number of human disorders and toxin exposures in the majority of organ systems. Isolation and expansion techniques for rat ASCs continue to change with advances in technology and ASC biology. The information presented in this chapter is a summary of rat ASC harvest, isolation, quantification, and in vitro expansion.