J Wound Manag Res.  2025 Feb;21(1):1-9. 10.22467/jwmr.2024.02964.

Influence of Adipose-Derived Stem Cell-Enhanced Acellular Dermal Matrix on Capsule Formation in Rat Models

• Kang HS
• Kang MJ
• Hong HK
• Ryu JY
• Lee JS
• Choi KY
• Chung HY
• Park HY
• Yang JD

• KMID: 2565176
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.22467/jwmr.2024.02964

Abstract

Background
The use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in breast reconstruction can inhibit capsular contracture, increasing the success rate of surgery. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can effectively suppress foreign body reaction, which is a major cause of capsular contracture. This study aimed to elucidate the synergistic effects of combining ADSCs with ADM on capsule formation, utilizing a rat model.
Methods
The study utilized 12 rats, equally divided into two experimental groups. Group A received silicone implants covered with ADM, while Group B was implanted with silicone prostheses wrapped in ADM, pre-seeded with ADSCs. Capsule formation was assessed through visual examination, histological analysis, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at 4 and 8 weeks post-implantation.
Results
At 4 weeks, the mean capsular thickness was 177.16 μm in Group A and 170.76 μm in Group B; at 8 weeks, it was 196.69 μm in Group A and 176.10 μm in Group B. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in capsule thickness between the groups (P>0.05). Histological findings indicated that Group A had more inflammatory cells and collagen fibers and reduced angiogenesis. RT-PCR showed that angiogenesis-promoting gene expression in Group B was 14% higher at 4 weeks and 156% higher at 8 weeks compared to Group A.
Conclusion
Although no statistically significant reduction in capsule thickness was observed, ADSC-seeded implants showed histological features associated with reduced inflammation and enhanced angiogenesis, suggesting potential benefits in capsule formation management.

Keyword

Capsules; Stem cells; Breast implants; Acellular dermis