Characterization of Molecular and Mechanical Phenotypes of Freshly Isolated Lipoaspirate Cells

Investigators: Manisha Kanthilal

Heterogeneity in adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) is a challenge for scientists and clinicians investigating stem cell-based therapies. Current ASC enrichment techniques include monolayer expansion and surface marker-based isolation. However, limitations such as inherent variation in physical and molecular phenotypes, temporal changes in surface markers, and lack of specific antigens for mesenchymal stem cells restrict translational and clinical applications of ASCs. Recent findings indicate that single-cell mechanical biomarkers are characteristic of cell types and can potentially identify stem cells in heterogeneous populations. The objective of this study is to characterize the elastic and viscoelastic properties of cells that reside in adipose tissue.