Frequently Asked Questions

Questions, answered.

01

About Stem Cells

The fundamentals — what stem cells are, the types we use, and why the difference matters.

What are stem cells?

Stem cells are the body's “master cells.” They can develop into many types of cells — such as muscle, nerve, and skin — helping repair and regenerate tissue naturally throughout your life.

What are mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)?

MSCs are adult stem cells found in umbilical cord tissue, bone marrow, and fat. They are powerful, anti-inflammatory, and play a key role in tissue repair.

At 23 Century, we use Wharton's Jelly–derived MSCs — young, potent, and safe, making them ideal for clinical use.

What's the difference between embryonic and adult stem cells?
  • Embryonic stem cells are derived from embryos and raise both ethical and safety concerns, as they have uncontrolled growth potential that may lead to tumour formation.
  • Adult (mesenchymal) stem cells, such as umbilical cord–derived MSCs (UC-MSCs), are ethically sourced from healthy, full-term post-birth umbilical cords and are completely safe.

At 23 Century, we use P4-grade UC-MSCs, which:

  • Have no hematopoietic properties, resulting in no risk of immune rejection.
  • Possess strong immunomodulatory functions, helping to regulate and balance the immune system, rather than triggering graft-versus-host reactions.
  • Contain HLA expression below 2%, ensuring exceptional biocompatibility across all patients.

23 Century practices only the use of adult human MSCs — never embryonic stem cells.

02

How Stem Cell Therapy Works

From cellular mechanism to your personalised treatment course.

How do stem cells help the body heal?

Stem cells migrate to areas of inflammation or tissue damage. They release growth factors and cytokines that calm inflammation, trigger repair, and stimulate the body's natural regeneration process.

How can I determine if stem cells can help me?

Our protocol primarily targets chronic inflammation, which underlies many degenerative and autoimmune diseases. Stem cells naturally home to inflammation, where they can repair damaged tissue, rebalance the immune system, and enhance vitality. Our specialists will assess your case and recommend the most suitable therapy for you.

How many stem cells are used in each treatment?

Each patient receives a personalised dosage depending on their condition and treatment plan, typically between 25 million to 50 million MSCs per course. These cells are cultured under cGMP and CGTP standards to ensure potency, safety, and efficacy.

Am I a suitable candidate for stem cell therapy?

Most individuals with autoimmune, chronic, or degenerative conditions are good candidates. Suitability depends on age, health status, and diagnostic results. Our doctors will conduct a full review before recommending a personalised plan.

Can stem cell therapy be combined with other treatments or medications?

Yes. Stem cell therapy can safely complement medications, physiotherapy, or other regenerative treatments. Please inform our doctors about any ongoing medications for proper coordination.

How are stem cells administered?

Delivery methods vary by condition — including IV infusions, intrathecal (spinal) injections, or local site injections for joints or injuries. Your physician will determine the best route for maximum efficacy.

How long does treatment take?

Each session typically takes about one hour. However, the total duration of your full treatment program — including preparation, diagnostics, and recovery — will depend on your medical condition and personalised protocol. Our medical team will guide you through the complete treatment flow once your plan is finalised.

When will I see results?

Most patients begin noticing improvement within 3 to 6 months, with continued progress up to 12 months. Stem cell therapy works gradually, focusing on long-term repair rather than instant results.

03

Types of Therapy Available

Our cellular, regenerative, and wellness offerings — from clinical to personalised programmes.

What cellular and regenerative therapies do you offer?
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) Therapy — repairs, regenerates, and restores function to ageing or damaged cells.
  • Memory-Like Natural Killer (ML-NK) Cell Therapy — strengthens the immune system, enhances cancer surveillance, and targets abnormal cells.
  • Secretome Therapy — a cell-free regenerative treatment that utilises natural extracellular vesicles (EVs), growth factors, and exosomes to stimulate self-healing and rejuvenation.
What wellness, diagnostic, and personalised programmes do you offer?
  • Anti-Aging & Aesthetic Therapies — peptide-based rejuvenation, collagen stimulators, IV drips, hair restoration, and skin renewal treatments.
  • Diagnostic & DNA Screening — including microbiome, telomere, pharmacogenomic, and Circulating Tumour Cell (CTC) testing for fully personalised therapy planning.
  • Organ & System Support — liver detoxification, kidney revitalisation, cardiovascular repair, and metabolic reset.
  • Men's & Women's Health — hormone imbalance, fertility optimisation, vitality enhancement, and sexual wellness rejuvenation.
What is Memory-Like Natural Killer (ML-NK) Cell Therapy?

ML-NK therapy enhances your body's natural defence against viruses and cancer. Your NK cells are collected, reprogrammed in our lab to increase tumour-targeting power, and then reinfused to strengthen your immune system. ML-NK cells selectively target abnormal cells without harming healthy ones, minimising side effects compared to conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

What is Secretome Therapy and how does it differ from stem cell therapy?

Secretome Therapy uses the bioactive “messenger” molecules secreted by healthy stem cells, including extracellular vesicles (EVs), exosomes, cytokines and growth factors — to stimulate your body's own repair process.

It's a cell-free treatment, ideal for rejuvenation, joint repair, or wellness without introducing live cells.

04

Treatable Conditions

The health areas we support, backed by evidence-based protocols.

What conditions does 23 Century treat?

23 Century's evidence-based protocols support a wide spectrum of health areas:

  • Neurological: Stroke, Autism, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Multiple Sclerosis
  • Autoimmune: Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohn's Disease
  • Orthopaedic: Osteoarthritis, joint degeneration, cartilage repair
  • Ophthalmology: Retinitis Pigmentosa, macular degeneration
  • Organ Health: Liver, kidney, and cardiovascular diseases
  • Metabolic: Type 1 & 2 Diabetes, obesity, chronic fatigue
  • Oncology & Immunity: Cancer prevention, CTC testing and immunomodulatory support
  • Aesthetic & Longevity: Hair loss, anti-ageing, skin repair, and hormone imbalance
05

Safety & Ethics

Sourcing, certifications, and what to expect during treatment.

Are stem cells safe?

Yes. Our MSCs are immunoprivileged and have been clinically proven safe. All procedures are performed in Malaysia's largest Shariah-compliant cGMP/CGTP facility, adhering to the highest standard by PIC/S.

Where are your stem cells sourced?

All MSCs are ethically collected from Wharton's Jelly in full-term umbilical cords donated after healthy births. Each donor undergoes comprehensive screening for infectious and genetic conditions before approval.

Are there ethical concerns?

None. We do not use embryonic stem cells. Our ethical sourcing and SIRIM MS1900:2014 Shariah certification ensure full compliance with both medical and ethical guidelines.

What side effects should I expect?

Mild, temporary effects like fatigue, headache, or slight fever may occur for 24–48 hours depending on the individual.

06

The 23 Century Difference

What makes our science, infrastructure, and care experience distinct.

What makes 23 Century different from other providers?
  • Largest Shariah-compliant cGMP/CGTP facility in Southeast Asia
  • ISO 13485:2016, NPRA, and PIC/S accreditations
  • 20+ years of stem cell and immunotherapy experience
  • 70+ countries with clinical applications
  • Over 20,000 successful cellular treatments delivered
  • Full integration of R&D, diagnostics, and clinical care within one ecosystem
How does 23 Century personalise treatments?

Every patient undergoes a Personalised Medical Assessment, including bloodwork, DNA profiling, and lifestyle analysis. This data allows us to design a Tailored Therapy Recommendation unique to your health goals — from recovery to longevity.

07

Patient Journey

What to expect from consultation to follow-up.

What is the treatment process like?
  1. Consultation: Meet online or in person to discuss goals and medical history.
  2. Diagnostic Testing: DNA, hormone, and inflammation panels.
  3. Therapy Design: Personalised plan created by our regenerative specialists.
  4. Treatment Administration: Conducted at our world-class cGMP facility.
  5. Ongoing Support: Regular follow-ups and progress tracking to ensure optimal outcomes.
Is there any downtime?

Minimal. Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours. We recommend rest, hydration, and avoiding alcohol or smoking for 2–3 days after treatment.

How long do results last?

Effects may last 6 months to 2 years, depending on your condition, health, and aftercare. Maintenance boosters are available for sustained outcomes.

08

Cost, Coverage & Logistics

Insurance and travel logistics for local and international patients.

Is stem cell therapy covered by insurance?

Currently, most insurance providers do not cover regenerative therapies.

Can I travel after treatment?

Yes. For local and international patients, our concierge team assists with transportation, hotels, and recovery accommodations.

09

Lifestyle & Aftercare

Habits that protect your results — before and after therapy.

Does smoking or alcohol affect results?

Yes. Both can hinder cellular regeneration. For best results, reduce or avoid them before and after therapy.

Do I need follow-ups?

Yes. We monitor your progress at 1, 3, and 6 months to ensure continued improvement and adjust your plan if needed.

Still have questions?

A real conversation is the best place to start.

Speak with our team about your condition, your goals, and whether regenerative medicine is right for you. Confidential, no obligation.