Infat: investigation of cellular and molecular factors related to the success of adipose tissue transplantation in humans

• Grant number: 23/13113-0
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Partnership for Technological Innovation - PITE
• Start date: March 01, 2024
• End date: February 28, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology - Physiology of Organs and Systems
• Principal Investigator: Marcelo Alves da Silva Mori
• Grantee: Marcelo Alves da Silva Mori
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biologia (IB). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• City: Campinas
• Partner institutions: UNIDADE NAO MAPEADA
• Associated researchers: Eduardo Rodrigues Sucupira Pinto ; Mariana Boroni

Abstract

Autologous adipose tissue transplantation is an aesthetic and therapeutic technique widely used for body remodeling and regeneration of damaged structures. This project aims to understand the cellular and molecular heterogeneity of adipose tissue, as well as the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) secreted in extracellular vesicles (EVs) in facial fat grafting, improving the efficacy and safety of the procedure. This study proposes to investigate the cellular and miRNA profiles in adipose tissue samples used in facial fat grafting, relating these profiles to the clinical success of the surgery. The main objectives include: 1) Identify cell subpopulations through single-cell RNA sequencing; 2) Characterize the profile of miRNAs secreted by EVs of adipose tissue; 3) Relate findings to clinical parameters of volume, durability, patient satisfaction and safety; 4) Establish potential biomarkers in adipose tissue that predict surgery success; and 5) Validate the predictive efficacy of these biomarkers. Adipose tissue samples will be collected from 33 volunteers who underwent facial fat grafting. Samples will be analyzed for gene expression in single cells, based on samples from patients stratified into groups of best and worst responders. In addition, the profile of miRNAs in EVs will be evaluated, correlating it with clinical parameters. Linear regression analyzes will be performed to identify variables associated with successful surgery. We expect to identify cellular and molecular patterns related to the success of facial fat grafting. The predictive degree of these patterns will be tested using the whole cohort. This could allow the development of biomarkers to guide surgical decision-making, increasing graft viability and durability. Furthermore, the data obtained will contribute to a better understanding of the biology of adipose tissue, potentially leading to innovative therapies. This project represents an approach to optimizing facial fat grafting, based on molecular and cellular evidence. The identification of biomarkers and mechanisms underlying the success of surgery can benefit both surgeons and patients, leading to more satisfactory aesthetic and functional results. In addition, it will contribute to a broader understanding of the complexity and function of adipose tissue, impacting areas such as regenerative medicine and reconstructive plastic surgery. (AU)