Overcoming functional challenges in autologous and engineered fat grafting trends

Autologous fat grafting offers significant promise for the repair of soft tissue deformities; however, high resorption rates indicate that engineered solutions are required to improve adipose tissue (AT) survival. Advances in material development and biofabrication have laid the foundation for the generation of functional AT constructs; however, a balance needs to be struck between clinically feasible delivery and improved structural integrity of the grafts. A new approach combining the objectives from both the clinical and research communities will assist in developing morphologically and genetically mature AT constructs, with controlled spatial arrangement and increased potential for neovascularization. In a rapidly progressing field, this review addresses research in both the preclinical and bioengineering domains and assesses their ability to resolve functional challenges.

Automated summary

Autologous fat grafting shows promise in repairing soft tissue deformities, but engineered solutions are needed to improve adipose tissue survival due to high resorption rates. Advances in material development and biofabrication have laid the foundation for functional adipose tissue constructs, but a balance is required between clinically feasible delivery and enhanced graft structural integrity. A new approach that combines clinical and research objectives can assist in developing mature adipose tissue constructs with controlled spatial arrangement and increased potential for neovascularization.