How stem cell therapy may help with Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease damages the connections between nerve cells and, over time, the cells themselves. Memory goes first, then orientation, judgement and independence. Medication can ease symptoms for a period. It does not address the inflammation that accompanies the disease in the brain.
- Mesenchymal stem cells are studied for their ability to reduce inflammation in the nervous system.
- Research examines how cell signalling may affect inflammation and the tissue environment. Evidence and clinical outcomes vary by application.
- Treatment is delivered intravenously, so the cells reach the brain through the circulation.
- Cells are prepared in our own laboratory and used fresh, never frozen.
- The protocol is written for the patient’s stage, their records and the family’s goals.
Concerns to discuss with your care team
Short-term memory
The same question asked twice in an hour, and the answer gone again by lunch.
Confusion and disorientation
Familiar rooms and routes that no longer feel familiar, and the anxiety that follows.
Mood and withdrawal
A quieter, flatter person than the one you know, or one who is suddenly quick to anger.
Sleep and the toll on the family
Restless nights, wandering, and carers who have not had a full night’s rest in months.
Who may be a candidate
Adults with Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed by a physician, in the earlier or middle stages, whose decline continues under conventional care, may be evaluated together with their family. Candidacy is decided by our physicians after a medical review of the diagnosis, current medication, general health and fitness to travel, never by a form.
Treatment is not offered where advanced disease would make travel distressing or unsafe, or where there is active infection, certain cancers, or other conditions identified in review. Where we do not believe treatment is appropriate, we will say so, plainly and early.
What to expect
1. Evaluation
A call with a patient advisor, then a medical review of the diagnosis, records and current medication, with the family involved throughout.
2. Treatment plan
Protocol, schedule and the full investment, written for the patient’s case and discussed with the family before anyone travels.
3. Treatment in San José
Travel and stay arranged for the patient and a companion. Treatment by our physicians in our Ministry of Health–licensed clinic.
4. Follow-up care
Scheduled check-ins with our team after you return home, and a report for the patient’s own physicians.
Investment
Each plan is built for one patient. In your consultation we walk through the full investment and exactly what it includes: cells, clinical care, and the arrangements around your stay.
The Cellebration approach
- Fresh, never frozen. Ask how cells are prepared and evaluated for your proposed care.
- Physician-led. Clinical decisions by our medical team, in a licensed clinic.
- An informed discussion. Review the evidence, limitations and alternatives relevant to your condition.
- Personalized support. A care team helps coordinate the treatment journey.