Adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) (SVF)

Adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) is a heterogeneous population of cells obtained from the enzymatic or mechanical dissociation of adipose tissue, containing mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial progenitor cells, pericytes, and various immune cells (Bourin et al., 2013). It is not a single molecular target or receptor but rather a complex cellular therapeutic agent used in regenerative medicine to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. SVF cells contribute to regeneration primarily through paracrine mechanisms, releasing pro-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) that modify the local microenvironment (Bora & Majumdar, 2017). Clinically, SVF is investigated for treating conditions such as osteoarthritis, chronic wounds, and ischemic heart disease, where it aids in vascularization and tissue remodeling (Nguyen et al., 2016). Because it is a cell-based product rather than a discrete molecular target, its therapeutic efficacy depends on the synergistic interaction of its constituent cells rather than a single drug-target interaction. Safety concerns associated with its use include the potential for ectopic tissue formation and the inherent variability in cell composition between different donors.

Other names

Regenerative stromal and vascular cellsStromal vascular fractionAdipose-derived regenerative cellsADRCsNon-adipocyte cell fraction

The stromal vascular fraction exerts therapeutic effects through paracrine signaling, secreting growth factors and cytokines that promote angiogenesis and reduce inflammation, as well as through the direct differentiation of progenitor cells into specific tissue lineages (Bora & Majumdar, 2017).