Identification and quantification of lipid accumulation in adipose tissue using oil red O and Sudan stains

This study investigates the application of Oil Red O and Sudan stains in identifying and quantifying lipid accumulation in adipose tissue, specifically focusing on its relevance to obesity-related oral diseases. Adipose tissue samples were collected from 50 obese patients (BMI > 30) and 50 normal-weight controls. Samples were stained with Oil Red O and Sudan III, IV and Black. Lipid accumulation was quantified using digital image analysis. Oral health examinations assessed the prevalence of periodontal disease, dental caries, and oral candidiasis. Oil Red O staining show 2.8-fold higher lipid contents obese subjects than controls (p<0.001). Sudan stains demonstrated similar trends, with Sudan Black being the most sensitive (3.2-fold increase, p<0.001). Positive correlations were found between lipid accumulation and the severity of periodontal disease (r=0.72, p<0.001), dental caries (r=0.58, p<0.01), and oral candidiasis (r=0.63, p<0.01) in obese subjects. Oil Red O and Sudan stains effectively identify and quantify lipid accumulation in adipose tissue. The study's findings underscore a robust link between increased lipid content and the prevalence of obesity-related oral diseases, highlighting the potential of these staining techniques in oral health research and clinical practice.