One of the hallmark characteristics of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) is their ability to differentiate into cells of mesenchymal lineages. It is also becoming apparent that ASCs can mediate a therapeutic benefit through cytokine, paracrine-driven mechanisms influencing apoptosis, angiogenesis, and potent anti-inflammatory responses. Although there is still no clear consensus on the antigen expression pattern that will define hASCs, a protocol is also presented for the flow cytometric analysis utilizing a series of antibody panels. The analysis of these surface epitope patterns can aide in the isolation and characterization of hASCs. Moreover, using this standardized antibody panel, direct comparisons can be made between ASCs isolated from various tissue sources, which will benefit the field by providing uniformity to the comparison process.
