Adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells: tissue localization, characterization, and heterogeneity

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Stem Cell Biology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Adipose tissue is an abundant and easily accessible source of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (ASCs).
• ASCs offer advantages for stem-cell-based therapies and tissue engineering due to high yields and multipotency.
• The in situ localization of ASCs within adipose tissue remains debated, with evidence suggesting a perivascular niche.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current knowledge on the in situ localization of ASCs.
• To discuss the characterization and heterogeneity of ASCs in vitro.
• To highlight the lack of standardization in ASC isolation and culture methods.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on adipose-derived stem cells.
• Analysis of cell surface markers and differentiation potential.
• Discussion of isolation and culture techniques.

Main Results:

• ASCs are characterized by plastic adherence and expression of specific markers.
• ASCs exhibit multipotency, differentiating into various cell lineages (meso-, ecto-, and endodermal).
• Evidence suggests ASCs are a heterogeneous cell population, including stem and progenitor cells.

Conclusions:

• Standardization of ASC isolation and culture is crucial for therapeutic applications.
• Understanding ASC heterogeneity and in situ localization is essential for optimizing their use.
• Adipose-derived stem cells hold significant potential but require further research for reliable clinical translation.