The use of adult stem cells from adipose tissue (fat, in other words) is a growing field within regenerative medicine, as EurekAlert reports. "Findings suggest that adipose-derived stem cells can be used to repair or regenerate new blood vessels, cardiac muscle, nerves, bones and other tissue, potentially helping heart attack victims, patients with brain and spinal cord injuries and people with osteoporosis. The work to be presented reflects a growing number of researchers who believe that adipose tissue (fat) will be a practical and appealing source of stem cells for regenerative therapies of the future. ... Five years ago we were seen as mavericks. Now there is a sense of validation and growing enthusiasm from an increasing number of international researchers who view adipose tissue as a potentially valuable source of therapeutic cells."

Link: http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2005-09/uovh-asc090205.php