Results of studies of properties of adipose tissue stromal cells are summarized in this review. It contains data on separation and cultivation of these cells as well as description of their antigenic characteristics, ability to differentiate into cells of mesenchymal and nonmesenchymal origin, angiogenic potential, and potential for transfection and transfer of therapeutic genes. Analysis of perspectives of clinical use of adipose tissue stromal cells in therapy of cardiovascular and other diseases is also presented.