The Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF) is a component of liposuction (fat suction) that remains after enzymatic separation. SVF obtained from adipose tissue has been shown to possess regenerative properties because it contains a population of Adipose-derived Stem Cells (ADSCs), multipotent mesenchymal stem cells, and other stromal components, including growth factors, vascular endothelial progenitor cells, fibroblasts, leukocytes, and pericytes. Adipose tissue is of special interest as a source of stem cells due to its availability and ease of processing. ADSCs can differentiate into various cell types, including adipocyte lineage, chondrocytes, osteocytes, and myocytes, which have potential clinical applications, especially in degenerative and inflammatory diseases such as neurodegenerative, ischemic myocardium, and orthopedic injuries. Furthermore, ADSCs function by releasing pro-regenerative cytokines that have beneficial effects on angiogenesis, fibroblast migration and proliferation, wound healing, and tissue revitalization.
So far, developments worldwide regarding the use of SVF (Stromal Vascular Fraction) stem cells have entered clinical trial stages, including for treating several osteoarticular, neurological, cardiovascular diseases, vocal cord injuries, infertility, neuroma, post-trauma, autoimmune, neurodegenerative diseases, fistulas, and chronic and difficult-to-heal ulcers, erectile dysfunction, and other diseases. Additionally, SVF is also utilized in the aesthetic field for rejuvenation and has proven to be safe and effective. SVF can be injected directly into patients or can be expanded in the laboratory to obtain ADSCs (Adipose-Derived Stem Cells), which can then be frozen for future use.
References
1 Gandolfi S, Pileyre B, Drouot L, Dubus I, Auquit-Auckbur I, Martinet J. Stromal vascular fraction in the treatment of myositis. Cell Death Discov. 2023; DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01605-9.
² Ferreira MY, Carvalho Junior JDC, Ferreira LM. Evaluating the quality of studies reporting on clinical applications of stromal vascular fraction: A systematic review and proposed reporting guidelines (CLINIC-STRA-SVF). Regenerative Therapy. 2023; DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2023.08.003.Â
