In Vitro Characterization of Canine Microfragmented Adipose Tissue Non-Enzymatically Extracted from the Thigh and Lumbar Regions

Simple Summary: Mesenchymal stem cells are located in bone marrow, adipose tissue, synovial membrane, and muscular tissue. They have an immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effect. Tissue engineering considers the usage of mesenchymal stem cells as a possible option for regenerating tissues, with respect to bone and cartilage, due to their ability to differentiate into multiple cytotypes (including chondrocytes and osteoblasts). Herein, we characterize a non-invasive solution based on Rigenera(R) technology, a mechanical disaggregation method able to produce autologous adipose tissue-derived micrografts which are analogous to adipose-derived stem cells.Within the adult canine population, disabilities and symptoms including joint pain and functional impairment are commonly observed in articular cartilage lesions and present a challenging feat in the operating room. Clinical settings require less invasive and more minimally manipulated measures facilitated by innovative and advanced technology. Mesenchymal stem cells have recently been proposed and, furthermore, autologous adipose tissue administration via injection has emerged as a new albeit somewhat controversial therapeutic tool. The purpose of this study is to characterize canine autologous micro-fragmented adipose tissue (micrografts) by mechanical approach without substantial manipulations. Adipose tissue samples collected from six dogs were processed by a Rigenera device and by enzymatic digestion from two different body regions (lumbar and thigh region). Interestingly, the immunophenotypic analysis attested that cells from Rigenera(R) were highly positive for the mesenchymal stem cells markers CD73 and CD90, less positive for hematopoietic CD45 and CD34, and negative for MHC class II antibodies (which play a role in immune responses). Finally, the Rigenera(R) technology obtained micrografts with a 35% higher expression of the IL10 gene with relevant anti-inflammatory activities compared to the enzymatic digestion protocol. This evidence suggests a potential improved clinical outcome capable of modulating inflammation and immune responses.

Automated summary

Mesenchymal stem cells located in various tissues have beneficial effects, and the Rigenera(R) technology can produce micrografts with similar properties for potential tissue regeneration purposes.