Research on stem cells from adipose tissue for wound healing and scar formation

"Traditionally, stem cells were primarily harvested from bone marrow or umbilical cord blood, both relatively difficult-to-access sources. In 2001, it was discovered that adipose tissue not only contains fat cells but also mesenchymal stem cells—supporting cells that function as stem cells in cases of tissue damage. This provided a much more accessible alternative for stem cell therapies. Since then, these stem cells have been studied and used for various applications, including neurological disorders, osteoarthritis, pain therapy, and wound healing," says Dr. Ramaut. "For my research, I specifically focused on the impact of these stem cells on wound healing and scar formation. We conducted clinical experiments in which surgical wounds were treated with adipose-derived stem cells, known as Nanofat."

The study showed that Nanofat had a positive effect on the early phase of scar maturation. In the treated group, inflammation and redness of the scar subsided more quickly than in the control group, which is a promising finding. Long-term benefits on scar formation have not yet been established, but the faster reduction of inflammation suggests that this therapy may help prevent problematic scars.

"This calls for further research in larger clinical studies," continues Dr. Ramaut. "Although the research focused on surgical scars, it also holds potential for the medical and cosmetic sectors. Adipose-derived stem cell therapies are already being used for wound healing and skin improvement, but the scientific foundation has so far been limited. My research helps explain why certain positive effects occur and paves the way for more targeted treatments."

The importance of further studies to fully map the potential of these stem cells must be emphasized. "Many people already undergo stem cell treatments for scars and skin improvement, but solid scientific evidence on the exact mechanisms was lacking. Our research contributes to unraveling these mechanisms," concludes Dr. Ramaut.

Reference:

Lisa Ramaut, Linde Moonen, Maxim Geeroms, Gaelle Leemans, Ellen Peters, Ramses Forsyth, Jan Gutermuth, Moustapha Hamdi, (2024) Improvement in Early Scar Maturation by Nanofat Infiltration: Histological and Spectrophotometric Preliminary Results From a Split Scar–Controlled, Randomized, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial, Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, Volume 6, ojae072, https://doi.org/10.1093/asjof/ojae072