ArticleFrontiers in cell and developmental biology2026
Efficacy and safety of autologous cell-based therapies for atrophic acne scar treatment: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis with in-depth methodological and clinical insights.
Article in Frontiers in cell and developmental biology, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
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Who cites it
1 citing paper in PubMed.
- Advancing fat graft survival: from adipose-derived stem cell mechanisms to next-generation regenerative strategies.Frontiers in cell and developmental biology · 2026Review
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6 authors.
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Abstract
Background: Atrophic acne scars represent a therapeutic challenge with significant psychosocial impact. Autologous cell-based therapies, such as stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and the ReCell® system, aim to address the underlying dermal matrix deficiency through regenerative mechanisms. This systematic review and meta-analysis provides an updated and comprehensive quantitative synthesis of their standalone efficacy and safety. Methods: We conducted a systematic search of multiple databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang) from inception to December 2025 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and split-face studies comparing autologous cell therapies (SVF, ReCell, fat grafting) with control treatments (e.g., saline, laser alone) for atrophic acne scars. The primary outcome was the change in the ECCA grading score. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction, objective scar metrics, healing time, and adverse events. Data were pooled using random-effects models. Results: Eighteen studies involving 500 participants were included. Autologous cell therapies significantly reduced ECCA scores compared to controls (Standardized Mean Difference [SMD] = -1.25, 95% CI: -1.80 to -0.70, p < 0.001; I Conclusion: Autologous cell-based therapies, particularly SVF, are effective and safe for improving atrophic acne scars, offering superior clinical, patient-reported, and safety outcomes compared to standard controls. The integration of detailed methodological insights provides a valuable evidence base to guide clinical protocol optimization and future research focused on standardization and long-term efficacy.
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