Long-Term Implantation of Preadipocyte-Seeded PLGA Scaffolds

Studies were performed in a long-term effort to develop clinically translatable, tissue engineered adipose constructs for reconstructive, correctional, and cosmetic indications. Rat preadipocytes were harvested, isolated, expanded ex vivo, and seeded within PLGA scaffolds. Preadipocyte-seeded and acellular (control) scaffolds were implanted for 1-12 months. Explanted scaffolds were stained with osmium tetroxide, processed, and counterstained using H&E. Quantitative histomorphometric analysis was performed on all tissue sections to determine the amount of adipose tissue formed. Analyses revealed maximum adipose formation at 2 months, followed by a decrease at 3 months, and complete absence of adipose and PLGA at 5-12 months. These results extend a previous short-term study (Tissue Engineering 1999;5:134) and demonstrate that adipose tissue can be formed in vivo using tissue engineering strategies. However, the long-term maintenance of adipose tissue remains elusive.