USF researchers have developed a method of reprogramming obese omental ASCs into a metabolically healthier subcutaneous-like lineage. The ASCs for this study were extracted from subcutaneous and omental depots from both a lean and obese donor. Differences were found in stem cell markers, exosome contents and senescence. Senescence is typically a negative cellular characteristic and can be defined as the permanent cessation of DNA replication and cell growth. However, it can also prevent the hyperproliferation of dysfunctional cells. Results from this study have shown that obese cells have undergone an epigenetic modification to promote hyperproliferation. The reprogramming of these omental ASCs into a healthier metabolic state could reduce obesity comorbidities not by reducing fat content, but by changing the cellular metabolic profile.
Levels of Senescent Cells are Significantly Higher in ASC From the Lean Donor (sc-ASCn and om-ASCn) than the Obese Donor