What it is
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are cells that can be found in several tissues, including bone marrow, fat (adipose) tissue, and tissues associated with birth such as umbilical cord. In a laboratory, they can be grown and observed to develop into certain cell types, such as bone, cartilage, or fat cells. Whether they behave the same way inside the human body is a question researchers are still studying.
You will see both 'stem cells' and 'stromal cells' used. Many scientists prefer 'mesenchymal stromal cells' because the evidence that these cells act as true stem cells in the body is debated, and because some of their possible effects may come from the signals they release rather than from becoming new tissue. The terms are often used interchangeably in everyday writing, which can be confusing.
MSCs can be sourced from a person's own body (autologous) or from a donor (allogeneic). Some are used shortly after collection, while others are grown in a lab over time (culture-expanded). Each source and method raises different questions about safety, quality, and regulation, which is why it helps to ask exactly what a product is and where it came from.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Historically, stem cell science has been most established in blood and immune conditions. In the U.S., the only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) products for certain blood and immune disorders, and they are used in specialist transplant settings. These are different from MSCs.
MSCs have been studied in laboratories and in clinical trials for a range of areas, including joint, immune, and tissue-related questions. For most of these uses, the evidence is limited or investigational, and results from early research do not guarantee the same results in people.
Alongside this research, many private clinics have offered MSC, adipose or stromal vascular fraction (SVF), umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, perinatal, and exosome products. Most of these are NOT FDA-approved, and no exosome product is FDA-approved. The FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products. Calling a service 'holistic' or 'alternative' does not change its FDA status.
How the right provider may help
A thoughtful visit with a licensed clinician usually starts with an evaluation: your history, your current concerns, prior care, and your goals. A good provider may help you understand your options, including conventional ones, and explain where research on MSCs stands without promising any result. Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation.
Come with questions. Is this specific product FDA-approved, and if not, why is it being offered? Is it part of a study registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB (institutional review board) oversight? What are the known and unknown risks, and what are the alternatives? Where do the cells come from, and how are they processed?
Verify before you decide. Confirm the clinician's license with your state medical board, and ask for written informed consent covering risks and alternatives. Be cautious about red flags: cure-all or 'treats everything' claims, paying to join a 'clinical trial', testimonials offered in place of evidence, and pressure to travel abroad or across state lines for treatment.
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress affect one another. Ongoing discomfort or a health worry can raise stress, and stress can influence sleep, tension, and how we experience the body. Hoping for a breakthrough is human, and it can feel especially strong when someone has been struggling for a long time. Taking time to weigh information calmly is a form of self-care.
Some people find that body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helps them build awareness of how stress shows up physically. Others value talk therapy through Therapists.plus to work through the worry and decision-making that often accompany health choices. These are complementary options for whole-person support, not substitutes for medical care, and the right fit is personal.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Most clinic-offered MSC, adipose/SVF, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, perinatal, and exosome products are not FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products.
- Evidence for MSC use in joints and other areas is limited or investigational, and nothing here suggests a cure, tissue regrowth, or avoiding surgery.
- Licensed professionals should guide care for any serious condition, and a clinician must evaluate you before any treatment decision is made.
- For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text 988.
Guides in this topic
Provider types
Frequently asked questions
What are mesenchymal stem cells?
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are cells found in tissues like bone marrow, fat, and umbilical cord that researchers study for their possible roles in repair and cell signaling. In a lab they can develop into cell types such as bone, cartilage, and fat. How they behave in the human body is still being investigated.
What is the difference between mesenchymal stromal cells and stem cells?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but many scientists prefer 'stromal cells' because it is debated whether these cells act as true stem cells in the body. Some of their possible effects may come from signals they release rather than from becoming new tissue. Ask a provider exactly what is meant when a product is described either way.
Is mesenchymal stem cell treatment FDA-approved?
No, in the U.S. MSC products are not FDA-approved for treating conditions. The only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) products for certain blood and immune disorders, used in specialist transplant settings. The FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell products, so ask any provider about a product's regulatory status.
Does MSC therapy for joints work?
The evidence for MSC therapy for joints is limited and investigational, so no one can promise a result. Research is ongoing, and findings from early studies do not guarantee the same outcomes for any individual. A licensed clinician can discuss your situation, established options, and any registered clinical trials.
What are culture-expanded stem cells?
Culture-expanded stem cells are cells that have been collected and grown in a laboratory to increase their number before use. This extra processing raises added questions about safety, quality control, and regulation. Ask whether a product is FDA-approved or being studied under an FDA-regulated and IRB-overseen trial.
What are the possible MSC injection side effects?
MSC injection side effects can include pain, swelling, or infection at the injection site, and reactions to the cells or other materials, and the full range of risks is not well established for unapproved products. Serious problems have been reported with some unapproved stem cell products, which is part of why the FDA has issued warnings. Ask a licensed clinician for written informed consent that covers risks and alternatives before any decision.
Educational resource. StemCell.biz shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.