Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Leftover Fat From Lipos Is 'Liquid Gold' for Stem Cells

Siphoned off fat better than skin for producing embyo-free stem cells

By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff

Posted Sep 8, 2009 3:42 PM CDT

(Newser) – Blubber may be the next big thing in stem cell research. Stanford scientists have found that leftover liposuction fat contains cells that can be changed into induced pluripotent stem cells—a type that doesn't require the use of an embryo, the San Jose Mercury News reports. Until now, scientists have typically used skin for the job. But the fat is easier to reprogram, they say. One study co-author called it “liquid gold.”

“Skin cells must be grown in the lab for three weeks or more before they can be reprogrammed,” explained the study’s senior author. “But these stem cells from fat are ready to go right away.” Besides, he notes, the stuff should be plentiful: “30-40% of the adults in this country are obese.”

Liposuction leftovers could be liquid gold for stem cell researchers.
Liposuction leftovers could be "liquid gold" for stem cell researchers.   (Shutter Stock)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 12 comments
yummines
Sep 11, 2009 1:16 AM CDT
win/win situation right here. people get rid of their unwanted body fat and scientists get free testing materials for stem cells. sweet
pg13
Sep 10, 2009 8:17 AM CDT
Frickin scientists still haven't figured out how to grow hair on my head. What a bunch of boneheads.
Snarfeh
Sep 10, 2009 3:15 AM CDT
No, riff, sorry but the "not one dead baby in sight" comment called for a response. And hell, even you should be aware it costs a bundle. Anyway, I'm Caucasian, so I get a free pass on white jokes and put-downs, ya know...nice try, though...

More Newser Stories

Oklahoma Bill Would Ban Fetuses in Food

Stem Cells May Reverse Blindness in Women

Scientists Turn Stem Cells Into Working Sperm

Judge Dismisses Suit Against Stem Cell Research

Scientists: We Can Make Pigs Grow Human Organs


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne