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Use of Lipotransfer in Scleroderma
Michelle F Griffin1, Aurora Almadori2, Peter E Butler3
1University College London (UCL) Centre for Nanotechnology and Regenerative Medicine, Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, Royal Free Hospital, UCL, London, UK.
Aesthetic Surgery Journal
|October 14, 2017
Summary
Fat grafting, or lipotransfer, offers regenerative potential beyond soft tissue filling. This safe procedure may improve fibrotic conditions by utilizing adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) for tissue repair.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Lipotransfer is a standard plastic and aesthetic surgical technique for soft tissue augmentation.
- Emerging evidence suggests fat grafting possesses tissue regenerative properties.
- Fibrosis associated with conditions like scleroderma and burn injuries may benefit from lipotransfer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the regenerative potential of lipotransfer beyond its role as a soft tissue filler.
- To investigate the role of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in the therapeutic effects of lipotransfer on fibrotic conditions.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of lipoaspirate to identify cellular components, including ADSCs.
- Analysis of ADSC functions, including secretion of bioactive factors and differentiation potential.
- Clinical assessment of lipotransfer outcomes in patients with fibrotic conditions, including scleroderma.
Main Results:
- Lipoaspirate contains diverse cell populations, notably ADSCs.
- ADSCs secrete angiogenic, immunomodulatory, and antiapoptotic factors.
- Despite functional differences in scleroderma patients, lipotransfer significantly reversed fibrotic effects.
Conclusions:
- Lipotransfer demonstrates significant therapeutic potential for fibrotic conditions.
- Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are likely key mediators of these regenerative effects.
- The accessibility and regenerative properties of lipoaspirate position it as a promising future treatment for fibrosis.