Increased Total Antioxidant Capacity Value Improves Survival of Fat Grafts in Rat Model.

Background: Although studies aiming to increase fat graft survival continue, in this study, the authors aimed to investigate the effects of different antioxidants on total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and their effect on graft survival.

Methods: Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into four equally sized groups, including a control group and three antioxidant groups receiving either melatonin (10 mg/kg), zinc (2 mg/kg), or vitamins E and C (100 mg/kg). Autologous fat grafts (1.7 ± 0.4 g) were transferred to the dorsal subcutaneous region, and total antioxidant capacity was measured on days 0 and 1, week 1, and monthly until the third month. Transferred graft volume and mass (1.3 ± 0.4 g) were measured using the liquid overflow method and precision scales at the end of the study. Routine hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry against perilipin were performed for semiqualitative analysis and H-score for viable adipose cells, respectively.

Results: Collected fat grafts measured significantly less in weight and volume and the survival rate was lower in the control group ( P < 0.01). The control group exhibited a reduction in TAC, whereas all groups receiving antioxidants had an increase in TAC during the first week ( P = 0.02, P = 0.008, and P = 0.004 for melatonin, zinc, and vitamins, respectively). Immunohistochemistry of the antioxidant group demonstrated a statistically significant excess and reactivity of cells staining with perilipin antibodies.

Conclusion: In this animal study, the beneficial effect of antioxidants on fat graft survival can be related to the significant increase in TAC following the first week of their administration.

Clinical Relevance Statement: Antioxidants improve fat graft survival and quality in this rat model, by increasing total antioxidant capacity in the first week of administration.