OBJECTIVETo explore the optimal seed cells derived from human adipose tissue for promoting the engraftment of transplanted adipose tissue in nude mice.

METHODSHuman adipose tissue granules (0.3 ml) obtained from patients undergoing liposuction were mixed with hypoxic adipose-derived stem cells (ADCs, group A), ADCs (Group B), stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells (group C), or pure adipose tissue granules in complete culture medium particles (group D). The mixtures were injected subcutaneously on the back of 6 nude mice, and the transplanted adipose tissues were harvested 3 months later to examine the engraftment using histological method and HE staining.

RESULTSThe wet weights of the adipose grafts in groups B and C (91.67∓1.472 mg and 96.67∓5.164 mg, respectively) were similar (P>0.05), but both significantly higher than those in groups A and D (61.67∓8.165 mg and 40.83 ∓4.916 mg, respectively, P<0.05). The grafts in groups A, B and Cshowed a significantly higher blood vessel density than those in group D; the blood vessel density was the highest in group C (P<0.05) and similar in groups A and B (P>0.05). Histologically, the adipose grafts in groups B and C consisted predominantly of adipose tissue, with less necrosis and fibrosis than those in groups A and D (P<0.05). The fibrosis count was the highest in group D (P<0.05), and similar in groups B and C (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONThe adipose-derived stem cells, especially ASCs and SVFs, can promote the engraftment of human adipose tissue in nude mice, indicating their potential clinical value in adipose tissue transplantation.