Stem cells are the body's raw materials — cells from which all other cells with specialized functions are created. Mesenchymal stem cells are adult stem cells that have self-renewal, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, signaling, and differentiation properties.  Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), self renewal capacity is characterized by their ability to divide and develop into multiple specialized cell types present in a specific tissue or organ. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be sourced from a variety of tissue including adipose tissue (fat), bone marrow, umbilical cord tissue, blood, liver, dental pulp, and skin.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely used in the treatment of various diseases due to their self-renewable, differentiation, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. In-vitro (performed in a laboratory setting) and in-vivo (taking place in a living organism) studies have supported the understanding mechanisms, safety, and efficacy of MSC therapy in clinical applications.

There is a plethora of research surrounding the mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).  Many studies have outlined their diversified capabilities.  These characteristics enable MSCs to be used in a variety of clinical settings for multiple degenerative conditions.  

Research is starting to suggest that umbilical cord tissue-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) may be more potent than other sources of mesenchymal stem cells thus potentially increasing their clinical efficacy.

Differentiation: refers to the normal process by which a stem cell undergoes maturation to become more distinct in form and function. For example, a single mesenchymal stem cell has the potential to develop into various types of cells

Immunomodulatory: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can regulate the immune system by promoting an inflammatory response when the immune system is under-activated and reducing inflammation when the immune system is over activated.  MSCs can play a key role in preventing the immune system from attacking itself similar to what one may see in many autoimmune disorders.

Anti-inflammatory: The reduction of harmful inflammation within the body. Inflammation is a response from the immune system that is aimed at protecting the body from harmful external stimuli as well as aid and repair the body.  However, when over activated, inflammation can have a detrimental effect on the body.

Multiple peer-reviewed studies have found Mesenchymal Stem Cells to be a safe procedure.  Additionally, over the course of our study, there have been no reports of any long-term negative side effects.

MSC have a degree of immuno-suppresive activity and thus are not usually subject to the same immune response as other foreign cells. Mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord tissue are universally accepted and have no chance of rejection. Cord tissue derived MSCs are essentially “brand new” and immuno-priviledged, unclaimed by the body.

Additionally, unlike other forms of treatment such as an organ transplant, there are no blood products used, and there is no HLA matching required. Umbilical cord tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) face no chance of rejection when administered.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), especially those derived from umbilical cord tissue, have shown a remarkable ability to avoid entrapment in the lungs due to their optimal size (17-19 µm) and efficient navigation of the pulmonary circulation. Although MSCs may come across the pulmonary first pass effect upon intravenous administration, their extraordinary homing capabilities enable them to precisely target areas of inflammation and injury in the body, significantly enhancing their overall therapeutic efficacy. The temporary presence of MSCs in the lungs does not diminish their potential benefits; in fact, they actively exert paracrine effects by releasing trophic factors and modulating the immune response. Continuous advancements in research and optimization of MSC administration techniques unequivocally support the highly effective delivery of these invaluable cells in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

The stated primary goal of our protocol is the marked reduction in the levels of chronic low-grade inflammation for an extended period of time. Stem cells have a unique, intrinsic property that attracts them to inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that stem cells can regenerate damaged or diseased tissues, reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system promoting better health and quality of life.

Studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCS) may positively impact the following conditions:

• ALS
• Alzheimer's
• Autoimmune conditions
• COPD (or other degenerative / inflammatory lung conditions)
• COVID-19 (long-haul / acute)
• Chronic Inflammation
• Crohn's Disease
• Diabetes (Type 1)
• Heart Failure / Heart Disease
• Kidney Disease
• Liver Disease
• Lupus
• Lyme Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Neurological Conditions (degenerative)
• Neuropathy
• Parkinson's
• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) or (CRPS)
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Stroke (ischemic & hemiplegic)
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

With our current knowledge of stem cells, it is technically feasible to delay aging and improve both health and lifespan. Stem cells can play a crucial role in delaying the aging process. Stem cells, in combination with anti-aging genes, can create a sophisticated shield, which can prevent the effects of aging.

Stem cells, play a crucial role in delaying the aging process. Stem cells make a complex and protective shield, which stand against the eroding effects of aging. The shield of stem cells is a primary target for absorbing the shock of aging. If this shield neutralizes the shocks, it could lead to a youthful state. Studies suggest that stem cell interventions that increase rejuvenation and keep in balance the expression of anti-aging genes could delay aging and result in prolonged lifespan.

The benefits of a stem cell transplant for aging

• A feeling of vitality and rejuvenation
• Improved capacity for physical activities
• Thickening and improved quality of hair
• Increased libido
• A decrease in pain
• Increased strength, balance & overall mobility
• Enhanced immunity
• Overall improvement in the quality of life
• Immune system regulation
• Decreased inflammatory markers

The usage of adult mesenchymal stem cells is not subject to the same ethical concerns as fetal and embryonic stem cells. Both the Catholic Church and the Southern Baptist Convention have released statements supporting research and application of adult stem cells in human disease treatment as an ethically acceptable substitute for fetal and embryonic stem cells.

Yes, we have written over 80 articles specifically designed to help prospective patients learn more about mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), stem cell therapy and other areas of regenerative medicine. We have also created a Study Database which includes a variety of third party peer reviewed research conducted on mesenchymal stem cells for a variety of different conditions.

MSCs can reduce the incidence of GVHD, but they cannot cause GVHD.

‍Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been studied as a potential therapy for graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). MSCs have been shown to promote an immunosuppressive and immunoregulatory environment via multifactorial mechanisms, including secretion of proteins/peptides/hormones, transfer of mitochondria, and transfer of exosomes or microvesicles containing RNA and other molecules.

While most studies have revealed that MSC therapy benefits acute and chronic GVHD, there is still a lack of large-scale randomized clinical trials to verify these findings.It is important to note that while MSCs can inhibit the proliferation and secretion of T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes, they do not have or have very low immunosuppressive capacity.

Mesenchymal stem cells may be able to help a variety of different conditions. The stated primary goal of our protocol is the marked reduction in the levels of systemic inflammation for an extended period of time. Stem cells have a unique, intrinsic property that attracts them to inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that stem cells can regenerate damaged or diseased tissues, reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system promoting better health and quality of life.

Studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCS) may positively impact the following conditions:

• ALS
• Alzheimer's
• Autoimmune conditions
• COPD (or other degenerative / inflammatory lung conditions)
• COVID-19 (long-haul / acute)
• Chronic Inflammation
• Crohn's Disease
• Diabetes (Type 1)
• Heart Failure / Heart Disease
• Kidney Disease
• Liver Disease
• Lupus
• Lyme Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Neurological Conditions (degenerative)
• Neuropathy
• Parkinson's
• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) or (CRPS)
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Stroke (ischemic & hemiplegic)
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

If you do not see your condition listed above please complete a Screening Application so that our medical team may manually review your case.

Yes, we are accepting patients for our IRB-approved Mesenchymal Stem Cell Treatment.

What is a phase II/III clinical study?

A study that tests how well a new treatment works for a certain condition and compares the new treatment with a standard. Phase II/III clinical trials may also provide more information about the safety and side effects of the new treatment. Combining phases II and III may allow research questions to be answered more quickly or with fewer patients. Our study in the Cayman Islands has been ongoing for ~4 years thus far.

Why IRB approval is important

Under FDA regulations, an Institutional Review Board is a group that has been formally designated to review and monitor biomedical research involving human subjects. In accordance with FDA regulations, an IRB has the authority to approve, require modifications in (to secure approval), or disapprove research. This group review serves an important role in the protection of the rights and welfare of human research subjects.

Our IRB-approved treatment protocol consists of a two-day period which involves the intravenous (IV) transplant of 300 million culturally expanded human umbilical cord tissue-derived adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The cells are administered manually at ~1cc per minute by our Medical Director, Louis A. Cona, MD. The infusion occurs on the second day and is roughly 2-3 hours long. It minimally invasive and has a 1-2 hour recovery period. (single IV transfusion in the forearm).

In accordance with FDA regulations, an IRB has the authority to approve, require modifications in (to secure approval), or disapprove research. This group review serves an important role in the protection of the rights and welfare of human research subjects.

The purpose of IRB review is to assure, both in advance and by periodic review, that appropriate steps are taken to protect the rights and welfare of humans participating as subjects in the research. To accomplish this purpose, IRBs use a group process to review research protocols and related materials (e.g., informed consent documents and investigator brochures) to ensure protection of the rights and welfare of human subjects of research.

Our protocol utilizes culture-expanded umbilical cord tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs).

Our cells are ethically sourced from AATB certified, US-donated, full term human umbilical cords and processed in our award-winning partner medical laboratory located in the USA, which is fully FDA registered, cGMP compliant, ISO 9001, and ISO 13485 certified. The cells are tested to ISCT standards for viability to ensure they meet minimum QA requirements multiple times before treatment.

To ensure cell safety, we conduct advanced therapy testing for sterility, endotoxins, mycoplasma, HIV-1/HIV-2, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and Syphillis. We also conduct confirmation of identity URMC Flow Cytometry testing to ensure post-thaw viability, and MSC phenotype expression (CD73+, CD90+, CD105, etc.)

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Our IRB-approved protocol calls for the systemic administration of 300 million culturally expanded human umbilical cord tissue-derived adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The cells are administered manually at ~1cc per minute by our Medical Director, Louis A. Cona, MD. The infusion occurs on the second day and is roughly 2-3 hours long. It minimally invasive and has a 1-2 hour recovery period. (single IV transfusion in the forearm).

Umbilical cord tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells have the ability to differentiate into different cell types and have the greatest proliferation rate of other types of stem cells (adipose, bone marrow, cord tissue). UC-MSCs are known to secrete growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines, improving different cell repair mechanisms.  These functions all assist the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs.

Non-invasive cell product

The harvesting procedure of UC-MSCs is non-invasive as it does not require extraction from the patient.  The MSCs are taken directly from an area of an ethically donated human umbilical cord. UC-MSCs also have a high proliferative potential than BMSCs and ASCs meaning they expand in vitro more effectively allowing for greater efficiency when obtaining higher cell numbers.

Studies have found that UC-MSCs genes related to cell proliferation (EGF), PI3K-NFkB signaling pathway (TEK), and neurogenesis (RTN1, NPPB, and NRP2) were upregulated (increase in the number of receptors) in UC-MSCs compared to in BM-MSCs. (15)

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We only use American Association of Tissue Bank (AATB) certified suppliers of full-term (>36 weeks), donated human umbilical cords. The selection of these donated tissues is extremely regulated and strict. The cords are tested for a variety of viruses, bacteria, STDs, Hep A/B/C/D, TB, Zika virus, no history of cancer or chronic illness, no history of autoimmune diseases, no tattoos or piercings, no travel abroad with one year, no history of CJD, negative for HIV, negative for HTLV 1 AND 2, and no history of drug or alcohol abuse. After the tissue is vigorously screened and accepted, the lab uses its clinical-grade and award-winning proprietary culture medium to expand the stem cells to roughly 300 million cells per treatment.

The American Association of Tissue Banks; a transplant trade organization that is dedicated to ensuring that human tissues intended for transplantation are safe and free of infectious disease, of uniform high quality, and available in quantities sufficient to meet national needs.
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The Association was founded in 1976 by a group of doctors and scientists who had started in 1949  first tissue bank in the US, the United States Navy Tissue Bank. Recognizing the increasing use of human tissue for transplant, these individuals saw the need for a national organization to develop standards, promote ethics and increase donations. Since their inception, the AATB has been dedicated to improving and saving lives by promoting and facilitating the safety, quality and availability of donated human tissue. To fulfill that mission, since 1984, the AATB has published the only authoritative industry standards for tissue banks, the AATB’s Standards for Tissue Banking (Standards).

The stated primary goal of our protocol is the marked reduction in the levels of systemic inflammation for an extended period of time.

‍Stem cells have a unique, intrinsic property that attracts them to inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that stem cells can regenerate damaged or diseased tissues, reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system promoting better health and quality of life.

Depending on the primary ailment or initial condition of the patient, the effects of our study can lead to a reduction in harmful symptoms, stabalization of condition and a significant quality of life improvement an extended period of time.

Currently the clinical use of expanded stem cells is not authorized in the United States. While you may find many clinics in the US offering “stem cell therapies”, these therapies are highly restricted in scope and number of cells used and quality of those stem cells.

It is because of these laws in the US that many have traveled abroad to receive the latest patient sponsored studies, including many high-profile athletes and celebrities. It has created a booming medical tourism industry in the last decade. DVC Stem seeks to provide patients with safe and effective treatments, in a safe, luxurious, and beautiful setting.

The primary goal of our protocol is to promote long-term condition stabalization and we do not require follow-up infusions. Some do choose to return voluntarily, most commonly to achieve further improvements. We generally do not recommend more than one treatment per year for most degenerative conditions.

Study participants have reported measurable results within 3-6 months following treatment. This is indicated by a marked reduction in levels of systemic inflammation and changes in general vitality as measure by our follow-up questionnaire. However, it is common for patients to report improvements in their quality of life and a lessening of their symptoms within the first few weeks following their infusion. However, every patient is unique and may respond to the study differently.

Patient response is dependent on a large variety of biological factors, however is also subject to the behavior and lifestyle of the patient. Patients who adhere to an active lifestyle, anti-inflammatory diet, and restrict the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine can seen sustained results for 2+ years, depending on condition. On average, patients have reported little signs of regression up to 24 months following their infusion and patients rarely return to their original state.

Please note: every patient is different and responds to treatment in their own way. There is currently no way to accurately predict the results of any stem cell infusion. We highly encourage prospective patients to do their research before pursuing this study. It is still a new, but promising field for treating many conditions which could otherwise not be treated.

Study results are quantified by measuring changes in unique inflammatory markers in conjunction with subjective data provided in PAR-Q vitality questionnaires. Our patient management team will follow-up with patients every 3 months for 24 months post-treatment in order to collect post-treatment efficacy data.

We are currently still collecting long-term data and do not have any published results to share specifically related to our IRB-approved clinical trials.(Trial HPC/CTR/003). However, preliminary data that has been collected over the past 4 years has been exciting.

Patient reported results have since shown that ~85% of our total patient population have noted a sustained improvement in their condition within 3 months of their infusion. This data is measured via a follow-up vitality questionnaire that is compared to baseline results collected within 3 months prior to treatment in conjunction with unique inflammatory marker testing.

More specifically, the current average improvements for our  patients 3 months after treatment are as follows:

• 75% increase in Stamina
• 53.75% increase in Libido
• 51.40% increase in Energy Levels
• 43.97% increase in Balance
• 28% increase in Coordination
• 23.19% increase in Strength
• 21% increase in Vision

Average improvements concerning cognitive function 12 months after treatment are as follows:

• 19.84% improvement in Memory
• 44% improvement in Ability to Concentrate
• 31.94% improvement in Decision Making
• 12.5% increase in Quality of Sleep

Multiple peer-reviewed studies have found mesenchymal stem cells to be a safe cell product. At DVC Stem, we have never had any patients report harmful effects from their infusion or a worsening of their condition.

Common short-term side effects immediately following the cell infusion have been fatigue, headache, and nausea. The patient will be under direct medical supervision for the duration of the treatment and recovery period of 1-2 hours. We have not had any reports of short term side effects lasting for longer than 2-3 hours.

No, our protocol calls for the administration of the cells  at a slow rate of 1cc per minute by hand by the physician to ensure control of the infusion. This method ensures the prevention of clots and other complications.  There have been no reported cases of clots or embolisms from our study participants.

We only use AATB certified suppliers of US-donated cord tissue, and do not accept outside cords, as our cGMP certified lab is specifically calibrated to accept cords from these suppliers with strict specifications. Accepting cords from outside sources puts quality control into question, and would require the production process to stop within the lab to avoid cross-contamination issues.

While this can be done, it would be at greatly heightened time and cost, for no biological benefit. Medically, there is no difference between cord sources for isolated cord tissue derived MSCs. Cord tissue stem cells are essentially “unclaimed” and immuno-priviledged, so there is no noted benefit to use cells from a family member.

In order to preserve cell viability (amount of live cells) the mesenchymal stem cells are cryogenically preserved in a protective solution at -150°F immediately after expansion. Once ready for use, the cells are carefully brought to the appropriate temperature and immediately tested for cell count and viability to ensure they meet all necessary quality assurance (QA) standards. Any cells which do not meet the optimum standards (viability numbers) are not used.

DVC Stem (Da VInci Wellness Centre) is located in Governors Square across from The Westin hotel on Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman, a small island paradise in the Caribbean. The Cayman Islands is an English-speaking British Overseas Territory and hosts over 2 million tourists a year. There are many direct flights to Grand Cayman from major cities in the U.S. and Europe. DVC Stem is located within the Da Vinci Centre a large modern medical facility directly on Seven Mile Beach.

The Cayman Islands are an overseas territory of the United Kingdom in the Caribbean Sea, comprising the islands of Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac, situated about 450 miles (724 km) southwest of  Miami, FL, United States. The islands are the outcroppings of a submarine mountain range that extends northeastward from Belize to Cuba. The capital is George Town, on Grand Cayman and the main airport is named Owen Roberts International (GCM).

The Cayman Islands are a safe and popular medical tourism / vacation destination. The high level of safety is one of the reasons why so many families visit Grand Cayman every year. Over 2-million tourists visit the Cayman Islands every year, and virtually no one has any issues.

A Visa is not required for US, Canadian and European visitors, however you will require a passport to enter the country. You can view all current travel guidelines here.

Unfortunately, it is difficult to find patient funded research within the United States, which is why you’ll find the world’s largest stem cell centers abroad. This means that although it may be possible to receive a stem cell infusion int he United States, the cells will not be expanded and may not be as effective for certain conditions. However, our partner lab, which a fully cGMP compliant, FDA-registered facility, is located in the United States, and must adhere to FDA safety standards concerning cell and facility quality.

In order to participate in our protocol, patients must be able to travel to our clinic located in Grand Cayman, a safe British overseas territory located about 45 minutes south of Miami via air.

All major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and local shops. The local currency is the Cayman Islands Dollar (CI$) but transactions using non domestic credit cards will be charged in US$. The US dollar is widely accepted throughout the islands. The CI$ is fixed to the US dollar at $1.25 US Dollars to $1.00 Cayman Islands Dollar.

The Cayman Islands provide a wide range of ultra-modern medical services, ranging from specialist clinics to large, sophisticated state-of-the art hospitals. There are three well-equipped, advanced hospitals in the Grand Cayman; two of these are privately-owned and one hospital is public. If you are a visitor, you will either require a health insurance that provides full coverage while you are overseas or should be able to pay for the infusion on your own. Healthcare in the Cayman Islands is considered equal to or better than services that you may find in Canada, United States and Europe.

Yes, DVC Stem (Da VInci Wellness Centre) is fully licensed healthcare facility that has been authorized to operate by the government of the Cayman Islands. As a British Overseas Territory, healthcare regulations are extremely strict, on par with the US, UK, and EU. Additionally, our entire medical staff is fully registered and licensed, and our stem cell protocols are IRB reviewed and approved by a board in the United States.

Louis A. Cona, MD is a pioneer in regenerative medicine, studying stem cells in the Cayman Islands for over a decade. He continues to research alternative therapies for various medical conditions, and with IRB-certified clinical trials, he has treated local and international patients for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), ALS, Parkinsons,  Systemic Inflammation (part of the overall aging process), as well as many other degenerative conditions.​

Louis A. Cona, MD is certified by the American Academy of Aesthetic Practitioners and is also a member of the World Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (WAAAM). He is an associate professor St. Matthews School of Medicine, Deputy Chair of the Health Practice Commission Cayman Islands Government, past chairman of Medical + Dental Council of the Cayman Islands, Medical Director of the Strand Medical Centre, past president of Cayman Islands Medical & Dental Society. He is also a recognized member of the British Medical Association, the General Medical Council (UK), the Caribbean College of Family Physicians, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

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In order to ensure patient safety and efficacy we require all patients to complete a panel of labs, medical exams and imaging prior to final clearance. The information provided will allow our medical team to establish a baseline of your pre-infusion status and ensure study eligibility.  These tests are to be completed prior to your arrival in Grand Cayman and is a requirement of our IRB approval, and is audited on a yearly basis.

The specific requirements will be provided in detail via email after the initial screening application has been completed. Additionally we have a patient management team that is available to help answer any questions related to the onboarding process.

In order to determine candidacy we request that all patients complete an application online. This screening application will give our medical team the preliminary information needed in order to determine if the applicant may be a candidate for our IRB-approved protocol. We have a three step onboarding process every patient must follow prior to final clearance:

Step 1: Complete Screening Application

Step 2: Complete Patient Intake Forms

Step 3: Complete Video Consultation

Our onboarding process has been designed to be as smooth as possible. Scheduling lead time can range from 2-3 weeks upon completion of the patient application.

The purpose of the Screening Application is to eliminate applicants that may not be a candidacy prior to starting the onboarding process. Once the onboarding process has begun, a variety of tests will be requested to ensure the patients is cleared of any active cancer or infections which may impact eligibility.

We do offer logistical support throughout the entire process. However flights, ground transportation and accommodation are not included in the base treatment cost. We have partnerships with select hotels on Seven Mile Beach and can offer exclusive discounts reserved only for our patients.

All travel restrictions have been removed in the Cayman Islands. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers can travel freely without restriction.

All travel restrictions have been removed in the Cayman Islands. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers can travel freely without any restrictions.

The cost of study participation starts at $27,500 USD (tax free). You will receive a quote after you have completed your screening application. Travel and accommodation are not included in the base cost. You can learn more about our pricing here.

Payment Policy

To confirm your  date we require a 50% deposit, with the remainder of the balance being due no later than two weeks prior to your scheduled date.

Payment Methods

We accept global payments via international bank / wire transfer, Visa & Mastercard as well as most debit cards. (please note that a 4% convenience fee will be added to credit/debit card payments and a $75 fee for wire transfers)

Yes, we offer interest-free financing (14 months) via our partner Advance Care Card. They aim to combine low interest rates and flexibility, to make financing simple and affordable. Apply for financing here

All deposits are fully refundable up to two weeks prior to the scheduled date. If you are unable to make your appointment or need to reschedule, our patient management team can help you organize another date for no extra charge.

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Yes, we have partnerships with select hotels on Seven Mile Beach and can offer exclusive discounts reserved only for our patients. However, accommodation is not included in the base cost.

No, unfortunately study costs are not commonly covered by insurance.