Regulatory role of microRNAs in the proliferation and differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells

Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) are multipotent mesenchymal stem cells obtained from stromal-vascular fraction of adipose tissue. ASCs are a promising resource for cell therapy due to their simple isolation, extensive expansion potential, and low immunogenicity. ASCs repair and regenerate damaged tissue by direct differentiation, whereas many other approaches rely on the secretion of paracrine factors. miRNAs target mRNAs for cleavage or translational repression, and have been shown to play critical roles in the regulation of stem cell proliferation and differentiation. The miRNA expression profile of ASCs varies according to the isolation and culturing method, and more than 40 different miRNAs have been reported to regulate ASC proliferation and differentiation. Therefore, this review summarizes the ASC-related miRNAs and their pivotal roles in regulating the proliferation and differentiation of ASCs. A comprehensive understanding of the effects of miRNAs on the proliferation and differentiation of ASCs is important and useful to enhance the regenerative potential of ASCs.