Frequently Asked Questions

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are adult stem cells found in tissues such as bone marrow, fat, and umbilical cord. They are capable of self-renewal and differentiation into multiple specialized cell types, making them versatile for medical and clinical applications. MSCs can be safely collected from a variety of sources and are widely studied for their potential to support tissue repair and overall health.

Our stem cells are isolated from umbilical cords ethically donated after healthy full-term deliveries or C-sections. Umbilical cord tissue is a rich source of various cell types, including a population of stem cells that has been successfully isolated by the EmCell Stem Cell Center.

We manufacture these cells in a controlled environment optimized to produce a final product with strong anti-inflammatory properties. Our laboratory in Ukraine, which has been producing various stem cell preparations for the past 30 years, provides us with highly therapeutic stem cell products specifically targeted to areas affected by acute or chronic inflammatory conditions.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are increasingly recognized for their unique ability to self-renew, differentiate, reduce inflammation, and regulate the immune system. These properties make them valuable in a wide range of clinical applications, particularly for degenerative and immune-related conditions.

Both in-vitro (laboratory-based) and in-vivo (within living organisms) studies have demonstrated the safety, mechanisms of action, and potential benefits of MSC therapy. Research continues to expand our understanding of how MSCs work and why they are so versatile.

Recent findings suggest that umbilical cord tissue-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) may be especially potent compared to other sources, possibly enhancing their clinical effectiveness.

Key Properties of MSCs

• Differentiation: MSCs can mature into a variety of specialized cell types, such as bone, cartilage, or muscle cells, supporting tissue repair and regeneration.
• Immunomodulation: MSCs help balance the immune system—stimulating an immune response when it is underactive, or calming it when it is overactive. This makes them particularly useful in conditions involving immune system dysfunction, such as autoimmune disorders.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: By reducing harmful, chronic inflammation, MSCs help protect tissues from damage. While short-term inflammation is part of the body’s natural defense and repair process, prolonged or excessive inflammation can contribute to disease.

Thanks to these combined capabilities, MSCs hold great promise for advancing care across a variety of health challenges.

Yes. MSCs have been widely studied in thousands of clinical trials and are considered safe for use. They are “immune-privileged,” meaning they naturally avoid triggering a strong immune response. This makes them one of the safest cell types to use in advanced medical programs. Is there any chance my body will reject mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)?

After IV infusion, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may temporarily pass through the lungs — this is called the “pulmonary first-pass effect.” However, due to their optimal size and strong homing ability, MSCs are not permanently trapped. Instead, they continue on to sites of inflammation or injury in the body while also releasing beneficial molecules in the lungs that support immune balance and healing.

No. For our treatments, we use mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) products derived from ethically donated umbilical cord tissue, collected after healthy full-term deliveries or C-sections. This source is classified as adult stem cells, even though they retain some of the beneficial qualities of earlier-stage cells, and therefore is not associated with the ethical debates surrounding embryonic stem cells. In fact, major faith-based organizations, including the Catholic Church and the Southern Baptist Convention, have publicly expressed support for the research and medical use of adult stem cells.

The use of Wharton’s Jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) offers several important advantages compared to MSCs obtained from bone marrow or adipose tissue:

• Enhanced biological profile: WJ-MSCs express the typical markers of mesenchymal stem cells along with modest levels of pluripotency genes. This combination is thought to provide stronger therapeutic potential while maintaining a high safety profile.
• Superior immunomodulatory activity: Studies show that WJ-MSCs have a particularly beneficial effect on the immune system. They are able to regulate lymphocytes and influence different immune cell populations, helping restore balance in cases of immune dysfunction.
• Low risk of rejection: Because WJ-MSCs lack certain surface proteins that typically trigger an immune response, the patient’s body does not recognize them as foreign. This minimizes the risk of adverse reactions or graft-versus-host disease.

The source material—Wharton’s Jelly from cord donations —is obtained exclusively from accredited medical centers in compliance with Ukrainian law. Donor informed consent is obtained and stored at the corresponding medical centers where procedures are performed. Donors are not compensated, ensuring that all donations are entirely voluntary and fully ethical.

Every stem cell preparation undergoes multi-stage safety and quality checks before, during, and after processing. All procedures are performed in our GMP-certified laboratories, ensuring that each product is safe, consistent, and of the highest clinical grade.

To guarantee safety and reliability, each batch of stem cells is subjected to the following control measures:

• Source Material Safety Control – donor screening and testing to exclude infectious diseases and genetic abnormalities.
• Microbiology Safety Control – sterility testing at multiple stages of processing to detect bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants.
• Mycoplasma Safety Control – PCR and microbiological testing to confirm absence of mycoplasma that may alter cell function.
• Virology Safety Control – extensive viral testing of both donor blood and final preparations to exclude common and rare infections.
• Tumorigenesis Risk Mitigation – karyotype analysis, immunophenotyping, and culture monitoring to rule out malignant transformation risks.

Through this multi-layered system of controls, we ensure that our stem cell products meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and clinical readiness.

Each batch undergoes thorough quality control to guarantee high-quality, clinically ready MSCs fully optimized for safe and effective regenerative therapy. Our multi-step quality assurance includes:

• Visual Control – daily microscopic monitoring to confirm morphology, homogeneity, and absence of artifacts or cell aggregates.
• Phenotype and Viability Control – immunophenotyping and viability testing to confirm stem cell identity, purity, and percentage of live cells.
• Functional Activity Control – evaluation of colony-forming potential, proliferative activity, differentiation capacity, and extracellular vesicle secretion.
• Final Viability Control – post-thaw assays and visual inspection prior to administration to ensure maximum cell survival and therapeutic efficacy.

Through this rigorous process, every product meets the highest standards of safety, quality, and clinical performance.

No, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are not known to cause cancer or tumors. Unlike embryonic stem cells, which can form teratomas (a type of tumor) in laboratory settings, adult MSCs do not have this risk. Thousands of clinical studies have shown that MSCs are safe, with no evidence of tumor formation in patients.

Your safety is our top priority, and only MSC preparations that have undergone a seven-stage quality and safety control process are used in our treatment programs.

MSCs from Wharton’s Jelly (the protective tissue of the umbilical cord) are considered immune-privileged, meaning they do not trigger an immune reaction. Unlike organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplants, MSCs do not require tissue matching and are regarded as safe and well-tolerated in clinical use.

Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) offer several important advantages compared to stem cells derived from bone marrow or adipose tissue:

• High Therapeutic Potential with Safety – WJ-MSCs express the standard markers of mesenchymal stem cells along with modest levels of pluripotency genes, supporting strong regenerative capacity while maintaining a favorable safety profile.
• Powerful Immunomodulation – these cells demonstrate enhanced ability to regulate immune responses, particularly by influencing lymphocyte activity and balancing different immune cell populations, which contributes to their broad therapeutic effects.
• Low Risk of Immune Rejection – because WJ-MSCs lack certain surface proteins that typically trigger immune recognition, the body is less likely to treat them as foreign. This significantly lowers the risk of adverse reactions or graft-versus-host disease.

By combining regenerative strength, immune regulation, and excellent safety, WJ-MSCs are considered one of the most promising sources for clinical applications in regenerative medicine.

Exosomes are tiny particles naturally released by cells that carry important signals, proteins, genetic material, and factors. They help cells communicate with each other, support tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy brain and immune system function.

Exosomes are tiny, naturally occurring particles—known as extracellular vesicles—that are released by many types of cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). They play a critical role in communication between cells, acting as messengers that influence healing, repair, and immune responses throughout the body.

When secreted by MSCs, exosomes carry a rich cargo of biologically active molecules such as:

• Anti-inflammatory cytokines that help calm harmful inflammation.
• Growth factors that stimulate tissue repair and regeneration.
• Specialized proteins that support cell survival and accelerate healing.

Because of this unique composition, exosomes are able to regulate inflammation, protect tissues from further damage, and promote recovery at the cellular level.

Recent scientific research has shed light on the important role exosomes play in stem cell therapy. Studies suggest that supplementing MSC therapy with exosomes can enhance therapeutic outcomes, particularly in conditions associated with aging and degeneration. These include:

• Chronic joint and musculoskeletal disorders
• Autoimmune-related inflammation
• Neurological and neurodegenerative conditions
• Skin aging and other age-related changes

One of the remarkable features of exosomes is their speed of action. Many patients report experiencing noticeable relief soon after receiving exosome-enriched therapy, followed by continued improvement over time as the stem cells themselves take effect.

Exosomes are administered at the same time and in the same way as MSCs, so patients do not need additional procedures or injections. At our facility, exosomes are carefully isolated during the culture of umbilical cord-derived MSCs and concentrated in our on-site laboratory. This ensures the highest level of potency, quality, and safety for every patient.

By harnessing both MSCs and their exosomes, regenerative therapies can provide more powerful and longer-lasting benefits — helping the body heal itself more effectively.

We offer personalized treatment protocols tailored to each patient’s specific condition. To determine whether you qualify for stem cell therapy, our doctors will need to review your medical records. Please contact our Patient Care Team at WhatsApp or Apply now. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

The core objective of our treatment is to significantly reduce chronic low-grade inflammation and maintain that improvement over the long term. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) naturally migrate to areas of inflammation in the body, where they release bioactive molecules that calm excessive immune responses, support repair of damaged tissue, and restore balance to the immune system. This unique ability not only helps reduce inflammation but also promotes overall health and improved quality of life.

Potential Applications of MSCs
Clinical studies and ongoing research suggest that MSCs may provide benefits in a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:

• ALS
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Autoimmune disorders
• COPD and other degenerative or inflammatory lung conditions
• COVID-19 (acute and long-haul)
• Chronic inflammation
• Crohn’s disease
• Type 1 diabetes
• Heart failure and cardiovascular disease
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Lupus
• Lyme disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Neurodegenerative disorders
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Parkinson’s disease
• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) / Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Spinal cord injuries
• Stroke (ischemic and hemiplegic)
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

The goal of treatment is to promote long-term stabilization of your condition, and in most cases, follow-up infusions are not necessary. Some patients choose to return voluntarily, usually to further enhance or build upon the improvements already achieved. For most degenerative conditions, we generally recommend no more than one stem cell treatment per year, ensuring both safety and effectiveness while allowing the body to fully respond to the therapy.

Stem cells have the remarkable ability to restore balance, repair damaged tissues, and activate anti-aging pathways within the body.

When combined with the activity of anti-aging genes, stem cells act as a sophisticated shield that protects against cellular damage and the gradual decline associated with aging. This “shield” absorbs the shocks of time, helping to preserve vitality and function. Research suggests that carefully guided stem cell interventions may enhance cellular rejuvenation, regulate immune function, reduce chronic inflammation, and ultimately promote longevity.

Potential Benefits of Stem Cell Applications for Aging

• A renewed sense of vitality and overall rejuvenation
• Enhanced physical stamina and energy for daily activities
• Thicker, healthier, and more resilient hair
• Increased libido and sexual wellness
• Reduction in chronic pain and discomfort
• Improved strength, balance, and mobility
• Strengthened immune defenses and better resistance to illness
• Lower levels of inflammatory markers
• Optimized immune system regulation
• Noticeable improvement in overall quality of life

No. Unlike other types of stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) do not trigger graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). In fact, MSCs are known for their ability to calm the immune system and reduce the risk of immune-related complications. Many studies report benefits of MSCs in both acute and chronic GVHD. This makes them a safe option even when cells come from a donor.

Before scheduling a stem cell treatment, we require some essential information to ensure your safety, optimize the therapy, and personalize your treatment plan. This typically includes:

1. Medical History: Details of current and past medical conditions, surgeries, and hospitalizations.
2. Medications and Supplements: A list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements you are currently taking.
3. Diagnostic Records: Recent lab results, imaging studies (MRI, CT, X-ray), or other relevant medical reports.
4. Allergies and Sensitivities: Any known allergies to medications, anesthesia, or other substances.

Providing this information allows our medical team to review your case thoroughly, confirm your eligibility, and ensure your treatment is as safe and effective as possible.

The number of stem cells administered depends on the patient’s condition, body weight, and the treatment protocol. At EmCell, we typically provide tens to hundreds of millions of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) per treatment, with doses carefully calculated to maximize therapeutic benefit while maintaining safety.

For treatments using Wharton’s Jelly-derived MSCs (WJ-MSCs), a single infusion often delivers far more cells than what is achievable from autologous sources like adipose tissue or bone marrow, providing a strong regenerative and immunomodulatory effect.

The exact dose for each patient is personalized by our medical team based on clinical evaluation, ensuring optimal outcomes while minimizing risks.

We provide a personalized therapeutic strategy tailored to your individual needs. Once we collect all relevant information — including your medical history, lab results, and treatment goals — our medical team carefully reviews it and develops a treatment plan based on your health status and specific requirements.

The core of our treatment is the intravenous administration of mesenchymal stem cells and exosomes. Additionally, if indicated, we may perform injections via other routes, including subcutaneous, paravertebral, paraarticular, intraarticular, intranasal, inhalation, or intrathecal administration, depending on your individual therapeutic needs.

Typically, doctors do not prescribe any medication as part of your treatment. However, they may recommend a supplement regimen to enhance circulating stem cells after the treatment, or prescribe medication to help stabilize your current state of health.

Current stem cell treatments in the United States are conducted under FDA-approved clinical trials. Although the results are promising, final FDA approval for many of these therapies is still several years away. EmCell has over 30 years of successful clinical experience with various stem cell applications, ensuring that your treatment is based on proven expertise rather than participation in experimental trials.

Patients have reported measurable results within 3–6 months following the program. This is indicated by a marked reduction in systemic inflammation and improvements in overall vitality, as measured by our follow-up questionnaire. However, it is common for patients to notice enhancements in their quality of life and a reduction in symptoms within the first few weeks after their infusion. Every patient is unique, and responses to the program may vary.

Every patient is unique, and responses to treatment can vary. Some patients experience noticeable, sustained improvements after a single session, while others may respond more gradually over time. In certain cases, additional treatments might be recommended in the future to further enhance clinical outcomes. Our doctors work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan designed for optimal results.

Advanced Mesenchymal Stem Cell Treatment has great results in managing a wide range of conditions, relieving pain, and promoting health. ≈85% of our patients report noticeable improvements within the first 3 months after treatment.

There is no risk of clot or embolism from intravenous stem cell infusion when proper clinical protocols are followed. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are generally within an optimal size range (≈17–19 µm), allowing them to pass safely through the pulmonary circulation without blocking blood flow. During production and prior to administration, the cells are processed, washed, and filtered to prevent aggregation, while viability and sterility tests ensure safety. Infusions are administered slowly under strict medical supervision to minimize hemodynamic stress. Serious complications such as embolism are virtually impossible when treatments adhere to established clinical standards.

We accept children with ASD from 3 years of age. The main contraindications are malignancy, active infections, and epileptic seizures. Please complete our medical form, and our team will contact you to discuss the most suitable treatment plan for your child.

Multiple peer-reviewed studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells are a safe cell product. At EmCell Stem Cell Center, we have never had any patients report harmful effects from their infusion or a worsening of their condition.

Common short-term side effects immediately following the cell infusion may include fatigue, headache, and nausea. Patients are under direct medical supervision for the entire treatment and a recovery period of 1–2 hours. We have not observed any side effects.

EmCell Stem Cell Center provides programs for children from the age of thee years as well as for adults of any age who are able to travel to us. The main contraindications are active malignancy and active infection. We do not accept every patient, because the potential efficacy of treatment is just as important to us as safety. If we do not see a genuine possibility to help, we do not admit the patient and we never create false expectations about what stem cells can achieve. Above all, we remain committed to caring deeply for the well-being of every patient.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the stem cell procedure. Procedures differ depending on the condition being treated, and some may be more invasive than others. Pain levels vary based on factors such as individual pain tolerance, the type of procedure, and the specific condition. Many patients experience only mild to moderate discomfort, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. More invasive procedures may require additional pain management, which is provided and closely monitored by our physicians. Some mild soreness or bruising at the injection site may occur afterward, but this usually resolves within a few days. Overall, the procedure is well-tolerated, and our medical team takes every measure to make it as comfortable as possible.

We provide structured follow-up with our patients for 12 months after treatment to monitor progress and ensure optimal outcomes. In addition, we remain in continuous contact and are always available to provide information, guidance, or support whenever our treated patients need assistance.

We provide a personalized therapeutic strategy tailored to your individual needs — including a customized dosage of stem cells and exosomes, targeted injection methods, and supportive therapies.

Yes. Stem cell therapy can often be combined with other treatments or supplements, but it is important to do so under the guidance of your physician. Some supplements, lifestyle interventions, or medications may enhance the effects of stem cells, while others could interfere with their function. Your doctor will evaluate your overall health, current medications, and treatment goals to develop a safe and optimized plan that maximizes the benefits of stem cell therapy while minimizing risks.

EmCell Stem Cell Center is where an effective product meets decades of treatment experience — delivering real benefits on your journey toward a healthier future. What sets us apart from other stem cell clinics:

Extensive Experience. All of our treatment protocols are based on over 30 years of extensive experience in research and in delivering effective stem cell therapies of different stem cell types to thousands of patients. We have been pioneers in clinical stem cell therapy since 1994. Our protocols are supported by decades of clinical research and proven real-world outcomes, ensuring a high standard of care and consistent therapeutic results.

Cell Therapy. We receive our own stem cell preparations from EmCell’s GMP-compline laboratory in Ukraine, ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and consistency. Our laboratory is not simply a production facility with standard cultivation protocols — it is a dedicated research center with decades of experience in studying various types of stem cells with the highest therapeutic potential. Over the years, we have developed our own proprietary cultivation protocols to optimize and refine our mesenchymal stem cells, aiming for the best possible clinical outcomes.

Personalized Treatment Plan. We provide a personalized therapeutic strategy tailored to your individual needs. Once we collect all relevant information — including your medical history, lab results, and treatment goals — our medical team reviews it thoroughly and proposes a treatment plan based on your health condition and specific requirements. This includes a customized dosage of stem cells and exosomes, various types of injections, and supportive therapies.

EmCell Stem Cell Center is located on the beautiful island paradise of Antigua and Barbuda, in the heart of the Caribbean. With regular flights from the US, Canada, and Great Britain, you can easily reach the island at a time that suits you most. Here, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility, your journey toward a healthier future begins.

In the United States, stem cell therapies are only available through FDA-approved clinical trials, and full approvals are still years away. U.S. regulations also restrict the number of cells used, since expansion (growing more cells) is not permitted. While some clinics in the U.S. may offer treatments outside these regulations, the key concern is whether patients are receiving safe, certified, and high-quality stem cells.

At EmCell Stem Cell Center, we are fully licensed and authorized by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and its Stem Cell Oversight Committee, and our laboratory is also licensed by the Ukrainian national regulatory authority to perform expanded stem cell procedures. This enables us to provide patients with millions of high-quality, clinically tested cells per treatment—something not currently available in the United States.

Yes, EmCell Stem Cell Center is a fully licensed healthcare facility, authorized to operate by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and its Stem Cell Oversight Committee, in accordance with national legislation. Our entire medical staff is fully registered and licensed, and all of our stem cell products meet strict safety and quality standards, accompanied by official certificates of quality.

Yes, Antigua and Barbuda is a safe, friendly, and welcoming destination. The island is known for its warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere, which makes visitors feel comfortable and at ease. As with any travel, we recommend taking normal precautions such as keeping personal belongings secure.

The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but US dollars are widely accepted everywhere—from hotels and restaurants to local shops. Major credit cards are also commonly used, making payments easy and convenient.

Your accommodation is included in the program package, so you can relax knowing your stay is taken care of. Flights and travel arrangements to Antigua are booked separately, but our team is happy to guide you with recommendations and tips to make the process smooth.

Travel to Antigua and Barbuda is simple and straightforward. All you need is:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months before expiration)
• A return or onward ticket

For most visitors, including those from the US, Canada, the UK, and EU countries, no visa is required for stays of up to 6 months. We always recommend checking with your airline or the official government website for the latest entry requirements before your trip.

The cost of the treatment and services start at $______USD.

The cost depends on the recommended treatment protocol and will be provided to you in writing upon approval. It includes the treatment itself, hotel accommodation with breakfast, Wi-Fi, airport transfers, and VIP gate service at the airport.

If you’d like a general estimate of the cost for a specific treatment protocol, please don’t hesitate to [contact us](посилання на apply now). One of our Patient Care Team will be happy to assist you.

At the moment, we do not offer in-house financing. However, we are actively exploring partnerships with financing providers to make this option available in the near future. Our goal is to make the program as accessible as possible for our clients.

Payment Methods

We accept a variety of global payment options:

• International bank/wire transfer ($75 processing fee)
• Visa & Mastercard, as well as most debit cards (4% convenience fee)
• Cash
• Cryptocurrency

Our team is happy to guide you through the payment process to make it as smooth and convenient as possible.

Please notify us at least one week before your scheduled date. If you are unable to attend or need to reschedule, our patient care team will be happy to assist you in arranging a new appointment.

At this time, stem cell procedures are not covered by insurance, especially when performed outside of your home country. For this reason, the program is offered on a self-pay basis.