Advanced methods to mechanically isolate stromal vascular fraction: A concise review

Abstract

Adipose tissue is a highly attractive reservoir of stem cells due to its accessibility and abundance, and the SVF within it holds great promise for stem cell-based therapies. The use of mechanical methods for SVF isolation from adipose tissue is preferred over enzymatic methods, as it can be readily applied in clinical settings without additional processing steps. However, there is a lack of consensus on the optimal approach for mechanically isolating SVF. This comprehensive review aims to present and compare the latest mechanical isolation methods for SVF from adipose tissue, including centrifugation, filtration/washing, emulsification, vibration, and mincing/adiponizing. Each of these methods possesses unique advantages and limitations, and yet, no conclusive evidence has emerged demonstrating the superiority of one approach over the others, primarily due to the dearth of well-controlled prospective studies in this field.

Highlights

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  mSVF excels vs. eSVF in regenerative medicine: enhanced cell retention, vascularization.

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  Factors for mSVF selection: prep time, ASC yield, viability, complexity, clinical needs.

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  mSVF aids volumization, graft retention; optimal prep method needs more research.

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  Mechanical isolation (e.g., emulsification) risks ASC, adipocyte damage, but yields high ASC concentration, fine injections.