The composition, function, and regulation of adipose stem and progenitor cells

White adipose tissue (WAT) is a highly plastic organ that plays a central role in regulating whole-body energy metabolism. Adipose stem and progenitor cells (ASPCs) are essential components of the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) of adipose tissue. They give rise to mature adipocytes and play a critical role in maintaining adipose tissue function. However, the molecular heterogeneity and functional diversity of ASPCs are still poorly understood. Recently, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis has identified distinct subtypes of ASPCs in murine and human adipose tissues, providing new insights into the cellular complexity of ASPCs among multiple fat depots. This review summarizes the current knowledge on ASPC populations, including their markers, functions, and regulatory mechanisms. Targeting one or several of these cell populations may ameliorate metabolic disorders by promoting adaptive hyperplastic adipose growth.