How does NeoStem^® collect and bank my cells?

• Prior to the collection, you will be asked to provide your medical history and undergo a physical examination by a physician.
• Typically, for two days prior to your collection, you will receive a stem cell mobilizing agent (through an injection) that will increase the number of stem cells in your circulating blood stream.
• The collection (or "apheresis") process usually lasts 4 hours, and takes place at a NeoStem^® Collection Center. The process is most similar to donating platelets or relatively similar to donating blood. Your blood will be circulated through a highly specialized machine that collects your stem cells utilizing a very safe, sterile procedure.

What diseases can be treated using my cells?

Traditionally, adult stem cell transplants have been successfully used as the standard of care in treating blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphomas and multiple myelomas. Today, over 2,700 clinical trials are being conducted looking at treatments for other diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, vascular disease, autoimmune disorders such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, and many more. In addition, adult stem cells are now being used for certain cosmetic procedures and evaluated for further ones.

Where can I use my cells to receive treatment?

There are over 2,700 clinical trials that are using stem cells to treat individuals with different diseases (refer to www.clinicaltrials.gov and type "Adult Stem Cells" in the search box). As medical tourism is becoming more popular, some individuals who do not fall into the trial selection criteria are seeking treatment in places such as Mexico, China, Germany and Costa Rica, to name a few.

Can I get my stem cells collected when I am sick?

Although it is always most beneficial to have your cells collected when you are healthy, you may still qualify even if you are sick, pending approval from your physician and our Medical Director. There are certain medical conditions such as acute and or chronic infections, HIV, Hepatitis, as well as acute blood cancers such as Leukemia, that would prevent your stem cells from being collected by NeoStem^®.

Is NeoStem's method of collection better than bone marrow aspiration?

Routinely, NeoStem^® is able to collect a clinically significant number of cells from your peripheral, circulating blood thereby eliminating the need for a bone marrow aspiration. NeoStem^®'s method of collection is much less painful, safer, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. The collection procedure usually takes 4 hours. Normal activities can be resumed almost immediately after your collection and you should not lose any time from work.

Where can I go to get my stem cells collected?

California (San Diego, Santa Monica & Malibu), New York (Long Island, New York City), Massachusetts (Cambridge), Texas (Austin), Kentucky (Louisville) and New Jersey (Montclair).

How long can my cells be stored?

Stem cells can be cryopreserved for a very long time. There is a very small degradation process that occurs from the time of collection until eventual use, but most of the collected cells should be active and healthy when you are ready to use them.

How long can my cells be stored?

At this time, most adult stem cell therapies are not reimbursed or paid by insurance companies, nor do they generally pay for a "healthy" donor's non-therapeutic collection and storage. However, most insurance companies do pay for cellular therapies related to the treatment of hematological malignancies.