Adipose-derived stem cells in fat grafting for facial paralysis: A review of their therapeutic modality.

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Facial paralysis, characterized by the complete loss of voluntary muscle control in the face, significantly affects individuals' daily lives. Recently, stem cell therapy has gained attention as a potential treatment for various medical conditions due to its capacity for self-renewal and differentiation into specialized cell types. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), obtained from the stromal-vascular fraction, consist of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, pericytes, lymphocytes, and tissue macrophages. Both differentiated and undifferentiated MSCs support axonal regeneration, enhance motor function, and promote growth factor release. ADSCs have been shown to improve regenerative outcomes, including better axonal development, increased myelinated fiber count, greater myelin thickness, and enhanced target reinnervation. These cells can differentiate into various lineages, particularly Schwann-like cells that facilitate axon regeneration. Additionally, ADSCs play a role in healing peripheral nerves by releasing neurotrophic and angiogenic factors. While the results are not as effective as nerve autografts, ADSCs offer an alternative option for reconstructing facial nerve paralysis.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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