The Potential of Adipose-derived Stem Cells in Craniofacial Repair and Regeneration

The recent identification of a mesenchymal stem cell population in adipose tissue has led to an abundance of research focused on the regenerative properties of these cells. As such, adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and potential therapies in craniofacial regeneration have been widely studied. This review will discuss the identification and potential of ASCs, and specifically, preclinical and clinical studies using ASCs in craniofacial repair. Studies involving ASCs in the repair of defects caused by craniosynostosis and Treacher Collins syndrome will be discussed. A comprehensive review of the literature will be presented, focusing on fat grafting and biomaterials-based approaches that include ASCs for craniofacial regeneration. (Part C) 96:95-97, 2012. (C) 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.