EmCell Clinic

• Source of Cells: The clinic utilizes stem cells derived from legally sourced fetal tissues (often cited as 5-12 week gestation), obtained following specific Ukrainian regulations and ethical guidelines outlined by the clinic. These tissues contain various types of progenitor cells. Suspensions are prepared in their laboratory according to proprietary methods.

• Claimed Mechanism of Action: Emcell proposes that these fetal stem cells work through multiple mechanisms when introduced into the body. They suggest the cells can:

• Migrate: Travel to sites of injury or degeneration.

• Replace & Repair: Potentially differentiate into needed cell types to replace damaged ones or stimulate local repair processes.

• Modulate Immunity: Help regulate abnormal immune responses often involved in autoimmune diseases.

• Trophic Effects: Release growth factors and signaling molecules that support the survival and function of existing cells and reduce inflammation.

• Revitalize: Provide a general anti-aging or revitalizing effect on various organ systems.

• Administration Method: Treatment typically involves the administration of these cell suspensions via intravenous (IV) drips and potentially subcutaneous (under the skin) injections. This systemic approach differs from localized orthopedic injections common in other types of regenerative medicine.

• There is no histocompatibility issue with fetal stem cells. These cells are not rejected by the patient's body as they do not yet contain major histocompatibility complexes. At the same time, cord blood, adult and animal cells express antigens that require complicated procedures such as donor-recipient matching and immune suppression.

• Fetal stem cells produce a wider range of specialized cells. The ability of fetal stem cells to differentiate is much higher than that of other stem cells, which means that they can produce a larger range of specialized cell types. Fetal stem cell treatment ensures the desired effect and has positive secondary effects on the entire body. This includes the patient's psycho-emotional state, their physical activity, the immune system, homeostasis and the functioning of internal organs.

• Fetal stem cells have a greater multiplication potential than other stem cell types. This unique property of fetal stem cells allows for them to be applied without prior culturing.

• Fetal stem cells are not subject to bioengineering prior to transplantation. We use only natural cells. Unlike adult or cord blood-based stem cell technologies, genetic engineering and cloning are not used with fetal stem cells.

• Fetal stem cell treatment is minimally invasive. Fetal stem cell transplantation differs only slightly from the administration of routine medicines and is performed via drip-feed IV, intramuscularly or subcutaneously.

• Fetal stem cells have no known side effects. No side effects associated with our treatment have ever been observed.

• Biotechnology Laboratory, where fetal stem cell suspensions are produced by original technology developed by our specialists.

• R&D Department, where our specialists continually work on advancing and improving fetal stem cell suspension quality.

• Clinical-Diagnostic Laboratory, where lab tests for diagnostic and follow-up purposes are performed and, if necessary, where the treatment regimen is adjusted (complete blood count, blood chemistry, cytology).

• PCR Laboratory where precise, high-quality regular and express tests take place for both clinical and biotechnological purposes.

• The Cryobank, where more than 20,000 individual samples of fetal stem cell suspensions, the core of our treatment, are safely stored in a modern cryo-storage facility.

Q: What specific type of stem cells does Emcell use?

A: Emcell utilizes suspensions containing stem cells derived from legally obtained fetal tissues (typically 5-12 weeks gestation) in Ukraine. This is distinct from adult stem cells (from bone marrow or fat) or umbilical cord stem cells used by many other clinics.

Q: Is Emcell's fetal stem cell therapy approved by major international bodies like the FDA or EMA?

A: Generally, no. Fetal stem cell therapy for the wide range of conditions Emcell treats is considered experimental by major regulatory bodies like the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). While legal and practiced under Ukrainian regulations, it lacks widespread international approval and validation through large-scale clinical trials standardly required for market authorization in many Western countries.

Q: What are the main risks associated with treatment at Emcell?

A: Standard risks include those associated with any injection or IV infusion (bruising, soreness, low risk of infection). Potential immune reactions are possible, though Emcell claims careful preparation minimizes this. The most significant considerations are the lack of extensive, independent long-term safety data recognized internationally and the ongoing debate regarding the efficacy and potential unknown long-term effects of systemically administered fetal cells.

Q: How much does treatment at Emcell typically cost?

A: While exact costs require a personalized quote based on the condition and treatment plan, fetal stem cell therapy at specialized clinics like Emcell is known to be very expensive, often running into tens of thousands of US dollars per treatment course.

Q: How long do I need to stay in Kyiv for Emcell treatment?

A: The core treatment administration usually takes 2 days. However, including pre-treatment evaluations and immediate post-treatment observation, patients typically need to plan for a stay of several days (e.g., 3-5 days or potentially longer) in Kyiv, subject to current travel feasibility.

• 1987 treatment of cytostatic myelodepression and aplastic anemia (filing of patent application)

• 1991 clinical trials and invention of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-infection treatment method; filing of patent application in the USA (priority dates back to 1993).

• 1992 successful application of fetal stem cells (in vivo) for treatment of type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus and filing of patent application

• 1993-1994 foundation of the Cell Therapy Clinic of the National Medical University (Kiev, Ukraine). Clinical trials of cell transplants for treatment of different diseases and conditions. First Ukrainian patents were granted. First efforts in development of multiple sclerosis treatment methods.

• 1995 application of fetal stem cells (in vivo) for treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. First efforts to apply different types of cell suspensions for treatment of muscular dystrophies, in particular Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

• 1998-2001 Greek, USA, Russian Federation and Ukrainian patents granted.

• 2002 Most Innovative Work Award granted by the Scientific Committee of the Annual Meeting of the Society of Medical Innovations and Technology (SMIT) held in Oslo, Norway. The first Dutch patent granted.

• 2003 the second Dutch patent granted.

• 2004 Ukrainian and Russian Federation patents granted. Development and patenting of methods of intestine diseases treatment (Crohn's disease, non-specific ulcerative colitis, etc.). Working out of ethical norms on the work with human fetal cells approved by the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.

• 2005-2007 extension of active clinical and scientific activities, participation in the numerous conferences and congresses, direct participation in the work of international societies and associations, such as Cellular Therapy Society, Cell Transplant Society, Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer, Society for Minimally Invasive Therapy, EASD.

• 2008 development of methods of fetal cell suspensions application in surgical practice, in particular for treatment of erosive-ulcerative lesions of stomach and duodenum complicated by bleeding. Elaboration of patient surveillance that was declared the best at the 1-st Central European Congress on Surgery (Prague, Czech Republic).

EmCell clinic owns modern cell suspension bank equipped with high-technology equipment: modern Dewar flasks and large cryogenic banks (tanks) containing tens of thousands of fetal cell suspensions.

Patenting has always been regarded as one of EmCell priorities. We were the first to describe the post-transplantation period after fetal stem cell treatment of diseases such as AIDS, HIV-infection, type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus, aplastic anemia, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, degenerative diseases of the nervous system, inflammatory and cancer bowel diseases, etc. In 1993, International Patent Application Examination Board in the Hague awarded them level "A", or absolutely pioneer works.

In our patents we mentioned the possibility of treating many diseases and conditions caused by or resulting in cell count reduction. Most of all, we take pride in our US and Dutch patents.

We work in the field of the modern branch of science called cell therapy. And we gave our definition of this branch of science. Cell therapy is science about stem cells and their clinical use.

It was in the 1990s that we realized this was the method's science. If a disease or condition is caused by or results in cell count reduction, cell therapy can be applied.

Almost all severe acquired and genetic diseases cause destruction of actively functioning cells. Stem cells capable of proliferation (multiplication), differentiation (specialization) and morphogenesis (tissue formation) are effective for tissue and organ function and cell count restoration. Stem cells of fetal origin are the most effective in achieving of the above-mentioned effects as they have the highest proliferative potential.

We are concerned about the safety of the suspensions we use and want our patients feel safe about the treatments offered. We guarantee safety, the system of screening has been developed, which includes the following:

The donor is screened for viruses prior to the procedure.
When collected, stem cells are screened for viruses by our laboratory. Defective and non-viable cells are discarded at once.

After this, suspensions are taken to the certified state laboratory that performs final screening and issues safety certificates for each suspension.

Very often, people are worried about cancer issues. Unlike embryonic stem cells of early development stage (1-2 weeks old, in vitro) characterized by uncontrolled growth and capable of causing teratomas and other complications, stem cells we use have already passed the first stage of specialization, lost the capacity for uncontrolled growth and "know" what cells or tissues to differentiate into. This means that there is no risk of cancer. In 17 years, no post-treatment cancer cases were reported by any patient.

Fetal Stem Cell Therapy for Aging & Rejuvenation

Emcell promotes fetal stem cell therapy as an "anti-aging" treatment aimed at improving overall vitality, energy levels, skin quality, cognitive function, and potentially slowing down age-related decline in various organ systems.

Fetal Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetes Mellitus

Treatment is offered for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Claims often focus on potentially improving pancreatic function (insulin production), reducing insulin requirements, improving glucose control, and mitigating diabetic complications (like neuropathy or vascular issues).

Fetal Stem Cell Therapy for Autoimmune Diseases

Emcell lists numerous autoimmune conditions as treatable, including Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and Scleroderma. The proposed mechanism involves modulating the malfunctioning immune system.

Fetal Stem Cell Therapy for Neurological Disorders

This is a significant area of focus for Emcell. Conditions listed often include Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias, stroke recovery, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Claims center on potential neuro-regenerative and neuro-protective effects.

Fetal Stem Cell Therapy for Cardiovascular Conditions

Treatment may be offered for conditions like heart failure, cardiomyopathy, or coronary artery disease, with claims related to improving heart muscle function and vascular health.

Other Conditions

The list often extends to liver diseases (cirrhosis, hepatitis), kidney failure, certain lung diseases (COPD), musculoskeletal conditions (arthritis, muscular dystrophy), infertility, eye diseases (macular degeneration), and certain genetic conditions.

• Initial Contact & Evaluation: Patients usually initiate contact directly or through medical tourism facilitators. This involves submitting detailed medical history, records, and potentially recent test results for review by Emcell's medical team to assess preliminary eligibility.

• Pre-Treatment Assessment (in Kyiv): Upon arrival in Kyiv, patients undergo further evaluation, which may include consultations, physical examinations, and potentially specific laboratory tests or diagnostics.

• Treatment Administration: The core treatment protocol typically spans two consecutive days. During this time, the prepared fetal stem cell suspensions are administered via intravenous (IV) infusions and possibly subcutaneous injections. The specific dosage and combination of cell types are determined based on the patient's condition and the clinic's protocols. This is usually performed on an inpatient or closely monitored outpatient basis.

• Post-Treatment & Follow-Up: After the two-day administration period, patients are usually discharged with recommendations for lifestyle and follow-up. Emcell typically advises that the therapeutic effects develop gradually over weeks and months. They may recommend repeat treatments at intervals (e.g., annually or every few years) to maintain or enhance effects, depending on the condition.

Clinical Experience: They emphasize their extensive experience, claiming to have performed tens of thousands of treatments since 1994, accumulating significant clinical data on patient outcomes and safety within their practice.

Proposed Benefits: Based on their experience, Emcell reports various potential benefits depending on the condition treated, including improved organ function, reduced symptoms, enhanced energy and vitality, better immune function, improved mobility, and slower disease progression.

Internal Research & Publications: The clinic often references its own scientific papers and conference presentations detailing its methods and observed results.

• Safety Protocols: The clinic states they perform rigorous testing on the fetal material and resulting cell suspensions for infections and other safety parameters according to Ukrainian regulations. Patients are monitored during and after treatment for adverse reactions.

• Source of Cells: Emcell states that the fetal material is obtained legally from planned abortions (typically 5-12 weeks gestation) with appropriate consent, following specific Ukrainian laws governing the use of such tissues for therapeutic purposes.

• Ethical Considerations: The use of fetal tissue for therapeutic purposes is a significant ethical issue with widely differing viewpoints globally. While legal within Ukraine under specific regulations that Emcell states they adhere to, this practice is restricted or prohibited in many other countries due to ethical concerns. Potential patients must consider their own ethical stance on this matter.

• Realistic Expectations: As with any medical treatment, especially those considered experimental, it's crucial for patients to have realistic expectations. Outcomes can vary significantly between individuals, and guarantees of cures cannot be made. Open discussion with the clinic and independent research are vital.

• Medical Team: Founded by Prof. Alexander Smikodub Sr., the clinic continues to operate with a team of doctors and medical staff trained in their specific methods of fetal stem cell preparation and administration.

• Facilities: Emcell operates a dedicated clinic in Kyiv equipped for patient evaluation, laboratory processing of cell suspensions, treatment administration (including infusion rooms), and patient monitoring.

• Positive Reports: Many patients travel to Emcell seeking hope for conditions where conventional treatments have limited options. Positive testimonials often describe subjective improvements in energy levels, overall well-being, reduction in specific symptoms (like pain or fatigue in MS, improved mobility in Parkinson's), or a perceived slowing of disease progression.

• Critical Points & Considerations: Reviews may also reflect the high cost of treatment (often tens of thousands of US dollars), the significant commitment involved in traveling to Ukraine (especially given current circumstances), the lack of guarantees, and variability in individual responses. Some may note the difficulty in objectively measuring improvements based on standardized medical markers versus subjective patient reports.

• Contacting the Clinic: Reaching out directly through recognized medical tourism facilitator, PlacidWay Medical Tourism.

• Medical Records Review: Submitting comprehensive medical history and diagnostic reports for the Emcell team to evaluate suitability for treatment.

• Consultation & Scheduling: If deemed potentially suitable, consultations (possibly remote initially) are scheduled to discuss the treatment plan, costs, and logistics.

• Travel Arrangements: Patients arrange travel to Kyiv. Facilitators may offer assistance with visas (if required), flights, and local accommodation.

• Stay Duration: A stay of several days in Kyiv is usually necessary to accommodate pre-treatment checks, the 2-day treatment administration, and immediate post-treatment observation.

• Cost: Treatment at Emcell is generally understood to be very expensive, reflecting the specialized nature of the therapy. Personalized quotes are provided after evaluation.