The Effect of Thymosin beta4 on the Survival of Autologous Fat Grafting: A Preliminary Study

Background Autologous fat grafting is a common procedure to improve tissue deficiencies. However, the survival rate of fat grafting is unpredictable. Thymosin beta 4 (Tß4), a multifunctional peptide containing 43 amino acids, is effective in angiogenesis, inhibiting apoptosis and inflammation. Objectives The authors initially investigated the potential effect of Tß4 in fat grafting. Methods Adipose tissue premixed exogenous Tß4 were transplanted into rabbit ears. Rabbits were randomly assigned to 3 groups: group A, 5 μg/mL Tß4; group B, 10 μg/mL Tß4; and group C, phosphate-buffered saline buffer as a blank control. The fat grafts were subjected to magnetic resonance imaging at 2, 4, and 12 weeks in vivo. Each harvested graft was analyzed at 3 time points after transplantation. Results The fat grafts in the Tß4-treated groups showed better volume and weight retention, greater adipose tissue integrity, adipocyte viability, and angiogenesis. The results of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging also showed that the experimental groups increased microcirculation perfusion of the grafts. Conclusions The study proved that Tß4 could improve adipose tissue survival and neovascularization. It may be useful for fat grafting as a potential protective reagent.