EXPLORING ADIPOSE-DERIVED STEM CELLS IN REGENERATIVE MEDICINE: INNOVATIVE APPROACHES OF EXTRACTION, STIMULATION, AND IN VIVO APPLICATION WITH A FOCUS ON NEURONAL POTENTIAL

This doctoral thesis comprises seven chapters that explore the intricate world of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and their regenerative potential. Chapter 1 presents an in-depth analysis of the anatomical aspects of adipose tissue and the skin, along with various morphological techniques essential for studying this complex biological entity. We focused the research on the gluteal region, recognized for its abundant adipose tissue content, and the face, marked for its exceptional diversity and complexity. Chapter 2 is dedicated to conceptualizing the regenerative potential of ADSCs, describing comprehensive insights garnered from a book chapter and an extensive review. Chapter 3 explores novel enzymatic and mechanical methods for obtaining highly regenerative stromal vascular fractions enriched with stem cells, opening new frontiers in regenerative medicine. Chapter 4 focuses on diverse methods to stimulate ADSCs, highlighting research on the impact of acoustic wave therapy and hyaluronic acid on modulating the behavior and functionality of these specialized cells. The 5th chapter delves into in vivo regenerative applications of stem cell-rich stromal vascular fraction in a calvaria mouse model, to investigate their potential in bone regeneration. Chapter 6 elucidates the neuronal potential of mesenchymal stem cells, with special emphasis on enhancing neurogenesis through the application of hyaluronic acid and comparative assessments of the neuronal differentiation ability in different stem cell sources. Lastly, Chapter 7 serves as an extension, encompassing diverse research publications in the field of cancer research and reconstructive medicine, broadening the scope and impact of the thesis findings. Through these meticulously structured chapters, this thesis not only advances our understanding of ADSCs and their regenerative properties but also highlights their promising applications across various fields of medicine, laying a solid foundation for future applications.