Effect of exogenous lipase on subcutaneous adipose tissue in a porcine animal model

Abstract

Background Topical exogenous lipase has been approved for cosmetic use and has been used to mobilize fat from adipocytes. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of exogenous lipase in the subcutaneous adipose tissue. Methods Three different concentrations of exogenous lipase 1× (2 Units per ml), 5× (10 units per ml), and 10× (20 units per ml) were applied in a porcine model. Normal saline (NS) solution (as negative control) and phosphatidylcholine (as positive control) were also injected. Skin and subcutaneous tissue biopsies, up to the fascia, were obtained from each injection site on the 3rd day after injection. The number of cells per 20× field was counted as an indirect measurement of the size of the adipocytes. Results For 1× lipase, the number of cells per field was 47.80 (±7.63) versus 27.26 (±4.93), and 34.66 (±6.84) for NS, and phosphatidylcholine, respectively. For 5× lipase, the count was 36.06 (±4.74) versus 24.13 (±5.18), and 33.2 (±9.34). For 10× lipase, it was 40.06 (±4.35) versus 29.26 (±2.34) and 32.66 (±6.30) (p < .05 for all groups). Conclusions A higher number of cells per field were observed in the lipase samples, inferring a decreased volume of adipocytes. No inflammation and/or loss of cell architecture were evidenced in the exogenous lipase groups.