What it is
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a kind of adult stem cell. They have been described in tissues such as bone marrow and fat, and in perinatal tissues such as umbilical cord. In a laboratory, they can be grown and may develop into cell types such as bone, cartilage or fat cells.
Researchers are also interested in how MSCs release signals that may influence inflammation and nearby cells. This is an active area of science, and much of it remains investigational. Learning what MSCs do in a lab dish does not tell us what they do when given to a person.
Regulatory status matters. 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, used in specialist transplant settings. Most clinic MSC products, including those from bone marrow, adipose (fat), umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly and other perinatal tissue, are not FDA-approved. The FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell products.
How it’s traditionally been approached
MSCs have mainly been studied in laboratories and in clinical research. Scientists have looked at them in areas such as orthopedics, immune conditions and tissue biology. Evidence in many of these areas is limited or still being gathered.
Outside research, people with joint, muscle or bone concerns have traditionally worked with licensed clinicians on conventional approaches. These can include physical therapy, medication, rehabilitation, lifestyle changes and, when appropriate, surgery. A clinician decides what fits each person after an evaluation.
Some clinics offer MSC-based products outside of FDA approval. Whether a product is legally offered, and under what oversight, varies. This is why it helps to ask directly about FDA status rather than assuming a treatment is approved or proven.
How the right provider may help
The right provider, such as a licensed clinician at an MSC clinical research site or in orthopedic regenerative medicine, may help you make sense of what is known and what is not. A first visit is generally a conversation about your history, your concerns and your goals, often with an exam and a review of past records. A good provider explains options in plain language and does not promise results.
Helpful questions to ask include: Is this product FDA-approved for my condition? If it is part of a study, is it registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, and is there IRB oversight? What are the risks, the alternatives and the limits of the evidence? You can also ask who prepares the product and how it is regulated.
Before you decide anything, confirm the clinician's license with your state medical board. Ask for written informed consent that covers risks and alternatives, and take time to think it over or get a second opinion. A trustworthy provider welcomes these steps.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Ongoing pain or a health worry can raise stress, and stress can change sleep, muscle tension and how we feel physically. Looking at the whole person, including rest, movement, nutrition and support, is a reasonable part of any health conversation.
Some people find body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helpful for tuning in to how stress shows up in the body. Others value talk therapy through Therapists.plus to work through worry, frustration or hard decisions. These are supportive options, not substitutes for medical care, and they do not change the FDA status of any product.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Educational only: this page is not medical advice, and only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation.
- Most MSC, adipose/SVF, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, perinatal and exosome products sold by clinics are not FDA-approved, and no exosome product is FDA-approved. Calling something holistic or alternative does not change its FDA status.
- Watch for red flags: claims that a treatment cures or treats everything, paying to join a clinical trial, testimonials offered in place of evidence, and pressure to travel abroad or across states for treatment.
- Serious conditions should be guided by licensed professionals. For emergencies call 911, and in a crisis call or text 988.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Frequently asked questions
What are mesenchymal stem cells?
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are adult stem cells found in tissues such as bone marrow, fat and umbilical cord. In the lab they can develop into cell types like bone, cartilage and fat cells. Their use in people is mostly investigational.
Where do mesenchymal stem cells come from?
They have been described in bone marrow, adipose (fat) tissue and perinatal tissues such as umbilical cord and Wharton's jelly. Where a product comes from does not by itself make it approved or proven. Ask any provider about the source and how the product is regulated.
Are mesenchymal stem cell treatments FDA-approved?
No, most are not. 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, used in specialist transplant settings. The FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell products, so ask any provider about a product's FDA status.
Are mesenchymal stem cells the same as exosomes?
No. MSCs are living cells, while exosomes are tiny particles that cells release. No exosome product is FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved exosome products. Talk with a licensed clinician before considering either.
How can I tell if a stem cell study is legitimate?
Check that the study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov and has IRB oversight. Be cautious if you are asked to pay to join a clinical trial. Also ask for written informed consent that explains the risks and alternatives.
What should I ask a provider about mesenchymal stem cells?
Ask whether the product is FDA-approved for your situation, what the evidence is and where it is limited, and what the risks and alternatives are. Confirm the clinician's license with your state medical board. Get written informed consent and feel free to seek a second opinion.
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.