Understanding the Regenerative Power of Processed Fat Tissue

Microfragmented fat preserves more healing cells than standard liposuction

This laboratory study compared two types of fat tissue: standard liposuction fat and specially processed "microfragmented" fat using the Lipogems® system. Researchers found that the microfragmented tissue maintained its natural structure while activating important cellular markers. The processing method uses gentle mechanical shaking with small beads rather than harsh chemicals or enzymes. This preserves the delicate environment where stem cells naturally live.

Lab tests confirm stem cells meet international quality standards

The research team isolated stem cells from both types of fat tissue and tested them against established scientific criteria. The cells from microfragmented fat successfully met all international standards for mesenchymal stem cells. These cells attached properly to laboratory dishes, displayed the correct surface markers (positive for CD73, CD90, CD105, and CD166), and could transform into bone, fat, and cartilage cells when given the right signals. This confirms that the Lipogems® processing method produces genuine, functional stem cells.

Processed fat tissue shows enhanced nerve-related markers

One surprising finding was that microfragmented fat tissue contained significantly more cells expressing beta-tubulin III, a protein associated with nerve cells. The stem cells derived from this tissue also showed higher levels of proteins typically found in neural tissue. These cells expressed important genes related to self-renewal (OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG) and nerve cell development (NEUROD1, PAX6, and SOX3). This suggests these cells may have broader regenerative potential than previously understood.

Cells remain viable even after freezing and storage

The researchers tested whether the beneficial properties survived long-term storage. They found that microfragmented fat tissue could be frozen at minus eighty degrees Celsius and still yield healthy, functional stem cells when thawed. This is important for practical medical applications because it means tissue could potentially be processed and stored for future use.

Study involved thirty patients across wide age range

The research team collected fat tissue from thirty patients, ranging from twenty-eight to eighty years old. All specimens were tested and confirmed negative for HIV, hepatitis, and other infectious diseases before processing. This diverse patient group helps demonstrate that the technology works across different ages and body types.

What this means for patients considering regenerative treatment

This laboratory study provides scientific evidence that the Lipogems® processing system effectively preserves and even enhances the healing properties of your own fat tissue. Unlike methods requiring chemical enzymes to extract stem cells, the mechanical microfragmentation approach maintains the natural protective environment around these regenerative cells.

The finding that processed fat tissue contains more nerve-related markers is particularly interesting. While this study focused on laboratory analysis rather than patient outcomes, it suggests that microfragmented adipose tissue may support healing in multiple tissue types.

For patients considering regenerative medicine options, this research confirms several key points:

• Your own tissue works well: The study used autologous (your own) fat tissue, eliminating concerns about donor rejection

• Minimal processing preserves cell quality: The gentle mechanical method maintains stem cell function

• Cells meet established standards: The resulting cells pass all international criteria for mesenchymal stem cells

• Age may not limit effectiveness: Patients up to eighty years old provided viable tissue

This foundational research helps explain why Lipogems® technology has been used in over one hundred thousand orthopedic procedures worldwide. Understanding that the processing method truly preserves functional stem cells gives patients and physicians confidence in this regenerative approach.

Source: Carelli et al., Cell Transplantation, 2015.