Obesity: An Emerging Importance of Progenitors

Stromal vascular fraction of the adipose tissue is recognized as reservoir of the cell populations with stem and progenitor properties. Besides the roles of adipose tissue stem and progenitor cells (ASPCs) in adipose tissue development and homeostasis, particularly interest is given to their functions in adipose tissue expansion and obesity. Obesity-driven low-grade chronic inflammation, reduction of oxygen level in adipose tissue and engagement of bone marrow, support recruitment of various progenitor cells in adipose tissue. Activation of bone marrow-adipose tissue axis regulates hematopoiesis and infiltration of immune cells in adipose tissue. Obesity-associated factors can provoke alteration of ASPC multipotent differentiation and immunosuppressive potential. Determination of underpinning mechanisms in altered (obese) ASPC phenotype may contribute to development of novel approaches for treatment of metabolic disorders and advancement the safety and efficiency of adipose tissue grafting.