This study was aimed to explore the methodology regarding culture, proliferation and purification of adipose-derived stromal cells (ADSCs), and to study their biological characteristics. ADSCs were obtained using type Ⅰ collagenase digestion method. Cell growth was observed, and cell viability were detected under different digestion period by MTT. The ADSCs were then identified and induced. The results showed that adherent cells digested by type Ⅰ collagenase for 60 min had a strong proliferation capability. After the induction of different inducers these adherent cells could differentiate into nerve cells and fat cells. The best digestion period was proved to be of 60 minutes in the experiment. The results indicate that stem cells with multilineage differentiation ability could be separated from adipose tissue, namely ADSCs.