Frequently asked questions
About the cells Dr. Celma uses, how they are tested, and how to get in touch.
The cells and the testing
What kind of stem cells does Dr. Celma use?
Dr. Celma exclusively uses mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), also called mesenchymal stromal cells, from donated umbilical cord tissue. The donors have not taken COVID-19 vaccines and must test negative for detectable spike protein.
Why does Dr. Celma screen donors for spike protein?
In view of the potential concerns associated with spike protein following COVID-19 vaccination, Dr. Celma requires that the cells used for his patients come from donors who test negative for detectable spike protein. This is an important consideration for him and for many of his patients.
Donor blood and tissue are tested by spike antigen ELISA for both the S1 subunit and full-length spike protein, testing is repeated before collection and processing, and the final MSC preparation is tested again.
What is a Certificate of Analysis?
A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is the laboratory document that records what was tested on the cells you receive, the methods used and the results. Every patient of Dr. Celma receives one, together with copies of the actual laboratory reports, including assay names, test results and detection limits.
What else does the laboratory test for?
- Sterility: validated microbial culture testing
- Endotoxins: Recombinant Factor C (rFC) assay
- Mycoplasma: real-time PCR (qPCR)
- Cell viability: flow cytometry using a validated live/dead assay
- Potency: functional T-cell suppression assays and cell surface marker testing
Treatment
Which conditions does Dr. Celma treat?
Autism, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, liver disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis, revascularisation of ischaemic limbs in systemic sclerosis, lupus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stroke, leukaemia, systemic joint disease and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children.
Is stem cell therapy a cure?
No. Stem cell therapy is not a magic cure. For many patients it offers a real possibility of improvement, but responses vary from person to person, and the field still needs larger clinical trials, long-term follow-up and standardised products. Dr. Celma discusses realistic expectations with every patient before treatment.
Can children be treated?
Yes. Dr. Celma treats children, including children with autism and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Each child is assessed individually, and treatment is usually part of a wider plan that continues their existing therapies.
Where does treatment take place?
Treatment is administered within a hospital setting in Puebla, Mexico. Practical details are discussed once Dr. Celma has reviewed your enquiry.
Is stem cell therapy approved?
Regulation of stem cell therapy differs from country to country, and many uses of mesenchymal stem cells are still being studied in clinical trials. Dr. Celma will explain the status of the treatment for your condition when he discusses your case.
How many treatments will I need, and what does it cost?
This depends on the condition, its severity and how a patient responds. Dr. Celma gives a personal recommendation after reviewing the medical history, so please include as much detail as you can in your enquiry.
Getting in touch
How do I contact Dr. Celma?
Send an enquiry through the contact form. Dr. Celma communicates by email, so please give an email address you check regularly. He will reply to you personally.
How long does it take to get a reply?
Dr. Celma is busy with his clinical work and usually has a waiting list for treatment, so his first reply can take seven to ten days. If you do not see it, please check your spam folder.
What should I include in my enquiry?
- The patient's age and diagnosis, and when it was made
- Current treatments and medication
- The main symptoms or changes you hope to see
- The country you live in
Please do not send medical reports through the form. Dr. Celma will tell you how to share them once he replies.