Effects of adipocyte-derived stem cells treatment for moderate radiodermatitis: animal model

Cancer treatment frequently involves the use of radiotherapy, which is associated with several adverse effects, including fatigue, immunosuppression, and radiodermatitis. Radiodermatitis affects up to 95% of patients worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) in treating radiodermatitis in a rat model.

Inguinal fat of three rats was removed, and ASC isolated. Then, 20 male Wistar rats underwent radiodermatitis induction using two Strontium-90 plaques, each delivering a single dose of 18 Gy to dorsal areas. After 15 days, animals were divided into two groups. (1) Control group (n = 10): without treatment; (2) ASC group (n = 10): treated with subcutaneous 1 × 10⁶ ASC injections into radiodermatitis sites. After 15 more days, skin was evaluated with RTOG scale, and tissue samples were collected to perform histology and gene expression of inflammatory markers.

ASC group showed a lower degree of radiodermatitis according to the RTOG scale. ASC showed an increased number of arterioles (p = .007) and a reduction in number of inflammatory cells (p = .02) compared to control. Furthermore, the treatment led to approximately a 50% reduction in the gene expression levels of the inflammation markers Il1rap (p < .001), Mmp3 (p = .001), and Tnf (p = .004) as well as a 30% reduction in Cd68 (p = .026) expression in ASC when compared to control.

This study suggests that the application of ASC enhances wound healing process in radiodermatitis by mitigating inflammation. This approach shows potential to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients undergoing radiotherapy.