What is the price of a stem cell transplant in Turkey?
The cost of stem cell therapy in Turkey in Istanbul ranges from £2,600 to £6,500. In the UK, haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is generally available on the NHS, while injections offered for other indications have no marketing authorisation.
| Procedure | Price in Turkey |
|---|---|
| Stem cells for arthritis | £4,800 |
| Stem cells for knees | £1,700 |
| Umbilical cord stem cells | £4,800 |
| Stem cells for Parkinson’s | £5,600 |
| Stem cells for cancer | £4,300 |
| Stem cells for eye disease | £4,800 |
| Stem cells for hair transplant | £2,100 |
| Stem cells for neurological disease | £5,900 |
| Stem cells for gastric disease | £4,200 |
| Stem cells for lung disease | £7,200 |
| Stem cells for fertility | £3,000 |
| Stem cells for autoimmune disease | £6,200 |
You have probably heard of stem cells? These are very special cells found in our blood or skin, but also in bone marrow and the umbilical cord. They are also very present at the embryonic stage. And if these cells have been the subject of so much research in recent years, it is because they have a superpower.
They have the ability to become whatever they want. They divide and multiply. But they are also able to transform into any type of cell according to the body’s needs: a muscle cell, a skin cell or a nerve cell, for example.
With this power, they can help repair and replace damaged or ageing cells in our body. Just imagine the medical potential.
Stem cell therapy is under way, and this is only the beginning. Many studies are in progress. In the near future, hospitals and clinics in Istanbul may treat cancers or Alzheimer’s disease. Hope certainly lies in stem cell therapy, and Turkey is at the forefront of innovation in this field.
So which diseases already benefit from these cell-based treatments? And which diseases could benefit from them in the near future?
Also read our guide to health check-ups in Turkey.
Stem cell therapy for eye diseases in Turkey
As you will have gathered, stem cells have the ability to repair. Cell therapy is therefore well suited to degenerative diseases. This is the case in particular for certain eye diseases such as:
- age-related macular degeneration (AMD);
- diabetic retinopathy;
- glaucoma;
- and corneal blindness.
These conditions affect many people worldwide and cause a progressive loss of vision.
AMD and diabetic retinopathy: regenerating the retina with stem cells
AMD and diabetic retinopathy both damage the retina, the membrane lining the back of the eye.
In AMD, the cells of the macula, the central area of the retina, gradually degenerate after the age of 50. Diabetic retinopathy affects the small blood vessels of the retina, weakened by excess sugar in the blood.
For both diseases, researchers are studying the possibility of transplanting retinal cells produced from stem cells in order to replace the deficient cells.
Another promising avenue is the injection of growth factors secreted by stem cells. Yes, on top of all their powers, these “mother cells” release their own “fertiliser”: growth factor. This fertiliser helps protect and stimulate the surviving retinal cells, so that they eventually heal themselves.
Clinical trials are under way in Turkish hospitals to assess the safety and efficacy of these approaches in patients with AMD or diabetic retinopathy. The first results are encouraging, but the long-term benefits of these therapies still need to be confirmed.
Glaucoma: stem cell treatment to prevent and cure
Glaucoma is characterised by degeneration of the optic nerve, often caused by excessively high pressure inside the eye. Here too, stem cells could become an ally for ophthalmologists in halting the progression of the disease.
The idea is to transplant stem cells into the eye. The goal is twofold:
- Lower the eye pressure by helping the trabecular meshwork regenerate;
The trabecular meshwork is a kind of spongy tissue that regulates the pressure inside the eye. Such a stem cell treatment could therefore prevent degeneration of the optic nerve.
- Protect and stimulate regeneration of the damaged optic nerve.
Some stem cells have neuroprotective properties that could preserve the cells of the optic nerve. Add an injection of growth factor, and hope becomes possible.
Results in animals are in fact very promising. But human trials are still needed to validate these approaches.
Corneal blindness: the first successes of stem cell reconstruction
The cornea is the transparent window at the front of the eye, essential for good vision. Many diseases can make it opaque and lead to blindness. Corneal transplants are currently the only option.
But researchers are exploring another route: rebuilding a clear cornea from stem cells.
Two options are being studied:
- The first option is to take stem cells from the edge of the patient’s cornea, culture them in the laboratory, then reimplant them to recreate a functional cornea;
- The second option is to reprogram skin or marrow cells into “supercells” capable of regenerating the cornea.
The very good news is that this seems to work. The first patients regained their sight thanks to corneal stem cell transplants in clinical trials. But it is not yet a routine treatment.
In Turkey as elsewhere, specialists are at the forefront of offering these innovations to their international patients. Stay informed about all the advances in this field.
By choosing Turkey for your stem cell eye treatment, you benefit from comprehensive care, from surgery to hospitalisation, including anaesthesia and postoperative care, all in a setting that is both highly specialised and welcoming.
Stem cell therapy in Turkey: hope for neurological diseases
Neurological diseases affect millions of people worldwide.
Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, stroke: these diseases frighten us. On top of their terrible symptoms, they have another point in common. They are all caused by the degeneration or destruction of nerve cells in the brain or spinal cord.
Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment to regenerate lost neurons. The available approaches mainly aim to relieve symptoms and slow progression.
This is why stem cell therapy is raising enormous hope.
Stem cells have the ability to multiply indefinitely and to specialise into any type of cell in the body, including neurons. The idea is therefore to use these cells to replace destroyed neurons and repair damaged nerve circuits.
Parkinson’s disease: stem cells to the rescue of dopaminergic neurons
Parkinson’s disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that affects the brain. Certain neurons gradually disappear, in particular those that produce dopamine.
As well as being the “happiness hormone”, dopamine plays a key role in controlling movement and memory. A lack of it causes disabling motor symptoms such as tremors or rigidity, but also sleep disorders, pain, depression and even dementia.
Researchers are trying to transplant brand-new dopaminergic neurons obtained from stem cells, or to inject their famous growth factors to protect the remaining neurons.
The first clinical trials are under way. Keep hoping.
Alzheimer’s disease: stem cells, hope for memory
Alzheimer’s disease is, like Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disease. It causes progressive and irreversible deterioration of the brain.
However, stem cell therapy suggests possible solutions for the future. The idea would be to use stem cells, able to differentiate into neurons, to replace the nerve cells destroyed by the disease, and thereby regenerate the damaged brain circuits.
Many challenges remain, such as choosing the source of cells or the method of administration. Nevertheless, cell therapy represents enormous hope for the millions of patients with Alzheimer’s disease worldwide. If the current research succeeds, it could halt or even reverse this terrible disease, which is currently incurable.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neurone disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that specifically attacks motor neurons. These neurons are responsible for our voluntary movements but also for swallowing and breathing. Their progressive disappearance causes muscle paralysis that can become fatal.
Researchers are working on transplanting new motor neurons obtained from these stem cells, or on injecting stem cells able to secrete protective molecules for surviving neurons. Clinical trials are under way. The ANSM describes claims of treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as scientifically unfounded [1].
Stroke and brain injury
Strokes and brain injuries, whether caused by trauma, tumours or neurodegenerative diseases, can cause irreversible damage to the brain.
Destroyed neurons do not renew themselves naturally, and this causes disabling neurological deficits.
Currently, treatments mainly aim to rehabilitate patients, without being able to repair the damaged areas of the brain. But researchers have tested various approaches in preclinical animal trials:
- Transplanting new neurons produced in the laboratory from stem cells;
- Injecting stem cells to stimulate the formation of neurons and blood vessels;
- Administering growth factors secreted by these cells to protect surviving neurons.
The results are very encouraging. So much so that a few phase I/II trials have been carried out in humans, demonstrating the feasibility and safety of the approach.
Spinal cord injury and paralysis: reconnecting the spinal cord with stem cell therapy
Spinal cord injuries are damage to the spinal cord. They can be caused by direct trauma (accident, fall) or by diseases such as tumours or infections. The bundle of nerves that transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body is broken, causing total or partial paralysis depending on the level affected.
With stem cell therapy, there is reason for hope.
Animal model trials have shown axonal regrowth. The axon is the extension of the neuron, the “cable” that transmits information. Early clinical trials combine stem cells and epidural stimulation, and patients already treated have seen an improvement in their motor function.
Regenerative medicine using stem cells will therefore very soon transform the management of spinal cord injuries, offering paralysed patients the hope of walking again one day.
Huntington’s disease: cell therapy against genetics
Huntington’s disease is a rare genetic condition that causes progressive degeneration of certain areas of the brain that control movement.
The symptoms are particularly disabling: involuntary movements and cognitive and psychiatric disorders.
Researchers are studying the transplant of new neurons to replace those that have been destroyed, as well as the injection of stem cells secreting protective factors for neurons. Genetically modified stem cells could even deliver therapeutic proteins.
Epilepsy: therapies for drug-resistant forms?
Epilepsy is characterised by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Unfortunately, this condition remains difficult to treat in some patients. Stem cell therapy offers new hope for these drug-resistant forms.
Researchers are studying the transplant of inhibitory neurons produced from stem cells to replace those that have been destroyed, hoping to restore the balance of brain activity. Another avenue is the use of genetically modified stem cells to deliver anti-epileptic molecules directly into the brain.
The reprogramming of brain cells into functional neurons is also being explored.
These approaches have already shown promising results in animals, raising hopes of new therapeutic options for patients with refractory epilepsy. Many challenges remain before these revolutionary therapies reach patients’ bedsides.
But Turkey has made the bet of investing massively in research and development of stem cell therapies. Along the Bosphorus, ultra-modern clinics and hospitals have sprung up, equipped with cutting-edge facilities and renowned specialists.
Many clinical trials are under way there to assess their efficacy in various neurological diseases. The preliminary results are promising. Decisive advances are just around the corner. Stay informed.
Fighting cancer: promising cell therapies in Turkey
Cancers, all cancers, are genuine scourges. And despite the heavy treatments doctors subject them to, they manage to resist and sometimes even to come back.
Researchers have managed to isolate a small subpopulation of cells that play a key role in the onset of cancers, but also in their progression and resistance to treatment.
These cells are in fact able to self-renew and to differentiate into different types of cells. Does that ring a bell?
These cells are in fact called cancer stem cells (CSCs). That is what makes them so dangerous, because they can continuously regenerate the tumour.
Faced with this invader and its abilities, scientists are currently testing several stem cell therapy approaches to target these CSCs directly.
Here is a simplified explanation of these different therapeutic strategies.
1 - Transplant of genetically modified stem cells
Researchers genetically modify normal stem cells so that they produce substances toxic to cancer cells (suicide genes). They then inject them into the tumour, where they specifically attack the cancer cells from the inside.
2 - Immunotherapy with CAR-T cells
The doctor takes white blood cells from the patient and genetically modifies them so that they express an artificial receptor (CAR) that specifically recognises markers present on the surface of CSCs. Reinjected into the patient, these CAR-T cells target and destroy the CSCs like guided missiles.
3 - Stem cells as drug carriers
In this case, the ability of stem cells to migrate towards tumours is used. They are loaded with anti-cancer drugs like a Trojan horse, so that they deliver them directly into the heart of the tumour, where the CSCs nest.
4 - Induction of CSC differentiation
Agents such as retinoic acid are used to force the CSCs to differentiate into mature cells. This strips them of their powers, making them more vulnerable to conventional treatments.
5 - Targeting CSC signalling pathways
The cell communication pathways that allow CSCs to maintain their undifferentiated state and self-renew are specifically blocked. By cutting these signals, the reservoir of CSCs is gradually exhausted.
Fascinating, do you not think? And above all so encouraging for the medicine of tomorrow. But in practice, where do doctors stand with these treatments?
For most “solid” tumours, stem cell therapy is still at the experimental stage. Several avenues, among those we have just seen, are being studied for tumours such as:
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Skin cancer
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, on the other hand, is a well-established therapeutic option in Turkey for patients with leukaemia, lymphoma and other blood cancers.
Stem cell transplant to treat leukaemia
Leukaemia is a blood cancer for which haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is already a standard treatment after chemotherapy, in Turkey and elsewhere. The term “haematopoietic” refers to the process of blood cell renewal.
The therapy consists of administering high doses of chemotherapy to destroy the leukaemic cells (which are blood cells). Radiotherapy also targets certain bone marrow cells. Healthy stem cells are then reinjected, either previously collected from the patient (autograft) or from a compatible donor (allograft).
The new stem cells help restore blood cells and a functioning marrow. And in the case of allograft, they also provide a new immune system that helps eliminate residual cancer cells.
The results are very encouraging. This stem cell therapy makes it possible to achieve prolonged remissions, and thousands of patients have been treated successfully in this way.
But the transplant remains a heavy and risky treatment. New approaches such as donor optimisation, haploidentical or cord blood transplants, or the use of genetically modified cells, aim to improve its results.
Nevertheless, despite its limitations, stem cell transplantation has transformed the prognosis of leukaemia. And it remains the reference treatment for high-risk forms.
Research continues in order to improve its efficacy and tolerability.
Lymphoma and stem cell therapy: effective treatments in Turkey
Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system. These cancers compromise the body’s ability to fight infections.
As with leukaemia, stem cell transplantation is used for certain lymphomas, particularly in cases of relapse or failure of other treatments.
After intensive chemotherapy to destroy the cancer cells, the bone marrow stem cells, previously collected and frozen, are reinjected to rebuild the bone marrow. This therapy requires prolonged hospitalisation and long-term follow-up.
Large university hospitals as well as private clinics offer this type of stem cell treatment in Turkey. The country is truly a destination of choice for international patients seeking a bone marrow transplant.
Stem cells, a revolution in aesthetics
In the field of aesthetic medicine, stem cell therapies represent a genuine revolution. Thanks to their regenerative properties, they open doors to skin rejuvenation, scar correction and the treatment of age spots.
Skin rejuvenation, improved skin texture and wrinkle treatment
Stem cells help repair and rejuvenate the skin at cellular level. They promote the growth of new skin cells, increase collagen production and improve skin elasticity. Nothing less.
This translates into skin that looks younger and firmer, with a reduction in wrinkles and fine lines.
Scar correction with stem cell treatment
But with these abilities, stem cells also make it possible to effectively treat scars, in particular hypertrophic and keloid scars. These inflammatory scars are linked to an overproduction of collagen during healing.
They appear as raised, often red, thick growths, and they can cause itching.
In Turkey, where this procedure is common, stem cell therapies have demonstrated their efficacy in softening these unsightly scars.
Treatment of age spots with cell therapy
Age spots can also be treated thanks to stem cells. By stimulating cell renewal, these therapies effectively soften age-related pigment spots. The skin is more even and radiant.
Several Turkish clinics and hospitals already offer these revolutionary treatments, with cutting-edge techniques such as stem cell-enriched fat injections.
The results are there: rejuvenated, firmer, luminous skin, with a visible reduction in wrinkles, redness and inflammation. And the effects are long-lasting. A genuine cellular fountain of youth.
Breast augmentation with stem cells
Breast augmentation with stem cells allows natural breast enlargement using stem cells from your own fat. The doctor harvests fat from an area of your choice, extracts the stem cells, then injects them into your breasts.
This method avoids artificial implants, reduces the risk of complications and makes it possible to correct asymmetries. Healing is faster than with conventional surgery.
Buttock augmentation with stem cells
Buttock augmentation with stem cells reshapes the buttocks using stem cells from your own fat, without artificial implants. The doctor simply harvests a little fat from your problem areas, extracts the stem cells, then reinjects them into your buttocks. The skin also becomes more beautiful and firmer. The result is natural both visually and to the touch, and lasts longer.
Penis augmentation with stem cells
This gentle technique uses your fat cells to increase the size of the penis. The doctor harvests a little fat from your body and extracts the stem cells. They are then injected with precision to improve length and thickness. The changes are gradual. It is less risky than conventional surgery.
Face lift with stem cells
Face lift with stem cells allows natural facial rejuvenation thanks to stem cells taken from your fat, without traditional surgery. The treatment has a dual action: it restores volume and regenerates the skin. The injection of millions of new cells reduces wrinkles and improves skin quality and blood circulation, for long-lasting results.
Hair transplant and stem cells
In the field of hair, stem cell treatments are more than promising for fighting alopecia and baldness, in both men and women.
Much more than a simple hair transplant, these therapies exploit the regenerative properties of stem cells to stimulate hair follicles and restart hair growth.
Male pattern baldness, a scourge affecting many men
Male pattern baldness affects many men. Usually starting between the ages of 30 and 40, sometimes in adolescence, this gradual hair loss is influenced by male hormones and genetic factors.
It shows up as thinning at the temples and/or on the crown of the head.
Female pattern baldness, often caused by a hormonal imbalance
Women are not spared by baldness. It affects them more rarely and can begin between the ages of 12 and 40. Unlike most men, hair loss is more diffuse across the whole scalp. Here too, hormonal and genetic factors are generally involved.
Alopecia, sudden and reversible hair loss
Alopecia is characterised by sudden, diffuse hair loss across the whole scalp. Stress, fatigue, iron deficiency, certain medications, chemotherapy or radiotherapy can be the cause.
Fortunately, this hair loss is often reversible once the triggering factor has been treated, unlike scarring alopecias which permanently destroy the hair follicles.
Turkish clinics, pioneers of stem cell hair therapies
Turkey is much talked about for hair implants. But treating baldness is quite different from simple implants.
Turkey is THE perfect destination to benefit from stem cell hair therapies. The expertise of the medical teams and their cutting-edge infrastructure no longer need to be demonstrated in this field.
Several techniques are offered:
- Hair mesograft (Rigenera method)
It consists of reinjecting into the scalp stem cells extracted from the patient’s hair follicles, to reactivate dormant follicles and promote regrowth.
- Injection of adipose-derived stem cell concentrate
These cells, harvested by liposuction, release growth factors that stimulate the hair follicles.
- Transplant of follicular stem cells cultured in vitro
Still in development, this technique opens up new prospects.
Denser, better-quality hair thanks to stem cells
Whichever method is used, no published study makes it possible to announce a regrowth timeframe or a proportion of responding patients. Hair transplant, by contrast, relies on an established surgical technique.
The density and thickness of existing hair are improved, for overall fuller, better-quality hair.
And the treatment is very well tolerated.
Ladies and gentlemen, you will be able to say goodbye to baldness.
Cardiology and stem cells: therapies for the heart
In cardiology, stem cell therapies offer new prospects for regenerating damaged heart muscle and improving heart function. Promising clinical trials are under way for various conditions.
Heart failure: cell therapy to revitalise the failing heart
Heart failure is the heart’s inability to pump enough blood to oxygenate the body properly. It shows up as fatigue, breathlessness and sometimes oedema.
It can be acute (sudden) or chronic (progressive). Cell therapy trials are under way, using stem cells from bone marrow, adipose tissue or cardiac stem cells, to regenerate the failing heart muscle.
Myocardial infarction: repairing the heart with stem cells
Myocardial infarction is the medical term for a heart attack.
This terrible attack is caused by the destruction of part of the heart muscle due to a lack of oxygen, often because of a blocked coronary artery.
Clinical trials are testing the transplant of stem cells (from bone marrow, cardiac or embryonic) into the damaged area to regenerate the heart muscle tissue and improve its function.
Angina: stimulating the formation of new vessels
Angina is chest pain caused by a lack of oxygen to the heart. Generally linked to narrowing of the coronary arteries, it can be one of the warning signals before a heart attack.
Cell therapy here tackles the root of the problem. It aims to stimulate the formation of new vessels (angiogenesis) to improve the blood supply to the heart muscle.
Cardiomyopathy: the promising avenue of stem cells
Cardiomyopathies are diseases of the heart muscle. It can become too dilated, thickened or stiff, which impairs the pumping of blood.
Several preclinical and clinical studies have assessed the value of MSCs (mesenchymal stem cells) in this condition. MSCs are adult stem cells present in various tissues (bone marrow, adipose tissue, etc.).
They have retained the memory of their embryonic origin and the magical ability to transform into bone, cartilage, muscle or fat cells according to the body’s needs.
In cardiomyopathies, they could help regenerate damaged heart muscle and improve symptoms and ventricular function.
Pulmonary hypertension: a promising cell therapy trial
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare and serious disease characterised by an abnormal rise in pressure in the pulmonary arteries. It places a heavy strain on the heart, particularly the right ventricle, which pumps blood to the lungs. Eventually, this can lead to heart failure.
An early trial using stem cells showed encouraging results in patients with PAH, with a slight improvement in heart and lung function. But the study above all proved that the treatment was well tolerated, with no short- or long-term adverse effects and no immunological reaction.
Cell therapy is therefore a source of great hope for regenerating heart tissue. Many clinical trials are under way to assess different types of stem cells. If the results are confirmed, these approaches could transform the management of these serious diseases, alongside current treatments.
Stem cell therapies for gastrointestinal diseases
Chronic diseases of the digestive system, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis and liver diseases, are often difficult to treat.
But stem cell therapies, in particular mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), offer hope of tissue regeneration and modulation of inflammation.
Stem cells to treat IBD: Turkey at the forefront
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are both chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. Crohn’s disease can affect the entire digestive tract from the mouth to the anus, whereas ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon and rectum.
But in both cases, symptoms include abdominal pain, chronic sometimes bloody diarrhoea, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) help reduce inflammation and repair the intestinal walls. In addition, local application of MSCs is effective for perianal fistulas in Crohn’s disease.
Clinical trials for these stem cell therapies are under way, particularly in Turkey, a country at the forefront in this field.
Pancreatitis: MSCs to regenerate the pancreas
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. It is often caused by gallstones or chronic alcoholism. It shows up as intense abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
MSC therapies are being considered to regenerate damaged pancreatic tissue and modulate inflammation. Clinical trials are under way.
Cirrhosis and fatty liver disease: MSCs to repair the liver
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a build-up of fat in the liver. It has nothing to do with excessive alcohol consumption, but is rather linked to obesity or diabetes in particular. It can progress to steatohepatitis (NASH) with inflammation and fibrosis, then to cirrhosis;
- Liver fibrosis is an abnormal build-up of tissue that gradually replaces the liver cells. The liver then becomes increasingly dysfunctional;
- Cirrhosis, for its part, is a serious chronic liver disease. It is the progressive phase of fibrosis.
The anti-fibrotic, anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties of MSCs are therefore particularly studied in these conditions. Phase I and II trials have shown the safety of MSC infusions in various patients, and an improvement in liver function.
Whether it is to modulate inflammation, regenerate tissue or restore organ function, stem cell therapies give hope for the future to patients with these diseases. And Turkey fully intends to play a major role in these therapeutic advances.
Stem cells, a breath of fresh air in respiratory medicine
In respiratory medicine too, cell therapy is eagerly awaited. But which chronic lung diseases could benefit from it?
Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that mainly affects the lungs and the digestive system. It is characterised by thick, sticky secretions that obstruct the airways and digestive tract. This leads to repeated lung infections, digestive disorders and, in children, delayed growth.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is an umbrella term covering chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The airways gradually become obstructed. Breathing becomes difficult. Symptoms also include chronic cough, mucus production and breathlessness.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a rare disease in which the lungs develop progressive scarring for unknown reasons. As with liver fibrosis, the lungs find it increasingly difficult to work normally, and patients are constantly short of breath.
These diseases have many points in common. And current treatments mainly aim to relieve their symptoms. This is why stem cell therapy raises great hopes for regenerating damaged lung tissue.
Stem cell therapies for these lung conditions
Several approaches are currently being studied:
- Injection of mesenchymal stem cells, which have anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. They could help repair lung damage in COPD, emphysema and pulmonary fibrosis. Early clinical trials have shown encouraging results.
- Administration of stem cells via the endobronchial route to treat severe emphysema. One study reported an improvement in respiratory function and quality of life at 12 months.
- Use of genetically modified stem cells to deliver therapeutic genes into the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis. This is still at the experimental stage.
Turkey is heavily involved in research into stem cell therapies for chronic lung diseases. Its specialist centres, in Istanbul in particular, actively take part in international clinical trials. Turkish teams work particularly on optimising protocols for administering MSCs by inhalation or the endobronchial route, a promising approach for targeting the lungs.
Stem cell therapy in Turkey: overcoming fertility disorders
Fertility disorders, whether male or female, have a major impact on the quality of life and wellbeing of couples. But in this field too, stem cell therapies offer new prospects.
Early menopause: stem cells to restart the ovarian clock
Early menopause means periods stopping before the age of 40. It is caused by a premature depletion of the ovarian reserve of oocytes. The symptoms are the same as those of menopause (hot flushes, vaginal dryness) with an added risk of infertility.
But the injection of stem cells into the ovaries could regenerate this ovarian reserve. Encouraging trials report the return of periods and even spontaneous pregnancies in some patients. Enough to give hope back to women affected by this condition.
Erectile dysfunction: stem cells to set things straight
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It can have psychological, vascular, neurological or hormonal causes.
Early trials have shown that the injection of stem cells into the penis could improve erectile function. An innovative approach to treating this disorder, which affects many men.
Endometriosis: stem cells to unravel the mystery
The uterine lining is the wall that lines the inside of the uterus.
Women with endometriosis have this lining growing abnormally outside the uterus, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes or peritoneum.
It causes pelvic pain, heavy and painful periods and sometimes infertility. The causes of this disease are still unknown. But the hypothesis of endometrial stem cells scattered throughout the body seems very consistent.
In that case, cell therapy could make it possible to specifically target these abnormal cells. A fascinating avenue for unravelling the mysteries of this disease.
Menstrual disorders: stem cells to the rescue of periods
Menstrual disorders include irregular periods, painful periods, periods that are too heavy or absent. These disorders can be due to hormonal imbalances, abnormalities of the uterus, endometriosis and so on.
Stem cell therapies could offer new options for regulating cycles and relieving symptoms. Research is under way to develop these techniques.
Several reputed clinics in Turkey, such as the Fertility Crete IVF centre or NBScience, already offer stem cell treatments for infertility and erectile dysfunction. They give hope back to the millions of people affected by these disorders.
Immunity: a solution for autoimmune diseases and transplants?
The immune system is our shield, protecting us from external attacks. Unfortunately, in some cases it starts attacking healthy tissues of our body by mistake. These are autoimmune diseases. Which ones are they?
Multiple sclerosis
In multiple sclerosis, immune cells destroy the myelin sheath surrounding the nerve fibres of the brain and spinal cord, causing motor, sensory and cognitive disorders.
Lupus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that attacks the skin, joints and sometimes even the kidneys, heart or lungs.
The symptoms of SLE vary greatly from one person to another, the most common being intense fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes and headaches.
Rheumatoid arthritis
In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system gradually destroys the cartilage. This causes chronic inflammation of the joints with severe pain and deformities, mainly in the hands, wrists and feet.
Allergies
Yes, allergies are also inappropriate immune reactions. But they are not strictly speaking autoimmune diseases. This time, the attacks are directed against normally harmless external substances (allergens) such as pollens, dust mites and certain foods. They show up as respiratory, skin or digestive symptoms.
Against these immune dysfunctions, stem cells are interesting solutions.
Stem cell therapy to reset the immune system
We have already covered haematopoietic stem cell transplants for the treatment of leukaemia. In the case of autoimmune diseases, doctors use them in certain severe forms of multiple sclerosis, lupus or arthritis, to “reset” the immune system after chemotherapy.
This radical approach makes it possible to eliminate the self-reactive immune cells and to generate a new, tolerant immune system.
The results are impressive, with prolonged remissions and even cures.
Different stem cells to treat autoimmune diseases
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are being studied in these diseases. The work focuses on their ability to modulate the immune response, without any marketing authorisation having been granted.
Clinical trials are under way in multiple sclerosis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. At this stage, the ANSM describes claims of treating multiple sclerosis as scientifically unfounded [1].
Organ and tissue transplants: stem cells to change the game
In the field of transplants, stem cells offer promising new prospects for:
- Increasing the number of organs available for transplantation:
1) By making it possible to “grow” new functional organs in the laboratory from the patient’s stem cells (tissue bioengineering). This could help overcome the current shortage of donor organs.
2) By repairing damaged organs considered until now non-transplantable, thanks to regenerative cell therapy.
- Improving graft survival and function after transplantation:
1) By healing the damage caused during organ removal and storage, thanks to the regenerative properties of stem cells.
2) By promoting better integration and revascularisation of the graft, via the secretion of growth factors by stem cells.
- Reducing graft rejection and the need for immunosuppressants
Graft rejection works on the same principle as the autoimmune diseases we have just seen. The immune system does not recognise this foreign body and attacks it.
Several clinical trials have already shown encouraging results, particularly with the injection of MSCs to prevent rejection of kidney, liver or heart grafts.
- Treating post-transplant complications such as fibrosis or stenosis
Cell therapies are therefore set to transform the field of transplants, by tackling the challenges of organ shortage, rejection and post-transplant complications.
What future thanks to stem cell therapy in Turkey?
A new era of medicine is under way. Fascinating. We are living through a pivotal moment. Basic research on stem cells is starting to translate into concrete clinical applications.
Trials are multiplying. Results are accumulating. And evidence of efficacy is growing. We are moving from a medicine of treatment to a medicine of regeneration, capable of curing where we could previously only relieve.
And in this race towards the future, Turkey is one step ahead. With its cutting-edge medical infrastructure and its highly qualified teams of researchers and clinicians, it is already a leading destination for innovative cell treatments.
Patients from all over the world come to Turkey for stem cell therapies in fields as varied as neurology, cardiology and aesthetic medicine.
The quality of care, the expertise of the teams and competitive prices attract men and women in search of the most advanced therapies.
While many countries, particularly in Europe, still struggle to integrate cell therapies into their clinical practice, held back by restrictive regulations, Turkey is a trailblazer and a model.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
What is the price of stem cell therapy in Turkey?
The price ranges from £2,600 to £6,500 in Istanbul depending on the indication and the number of cells prepared. In the UK, haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is generally available on the NHS. Speak to your GP or specialist about what your situation covers, as with any medical tourism in Turkey project.
How much does a stem cell injection in the knee cost?
An intra-articular injection is offered at around £1,700 in Turkey. No stem cell product is authorised for osteoarthritis, either in the UK or in the United States [2]: the procedure remains outside any framework, whereas a knee replacement follows an established protocol.
Where does stem cell therapy stand in the UK?
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is performed routinely in haematology. Other uses have no marketing authorisation, and the ANSM suspended a advertisement promoting them in 2025 [1].
What are the risks of a stem cell injection?
The literature reports permanent blindness after injection into the eye, a paraplegia and a death [3]. These are reported cases: they establish the possible severity, not the frequency. A corneal transplant, by contrast, follows a validated protocol.
How can you spot an unfounded cell therapy offer?
Three signals according to the ISSCR: the same type of cells presented as treating several unrelated diseases, the absence of a published clinical trial, and having to pay to take part [4]. All three can be checked before booking.
Should you pay to enter a clinical trial?
No. The ISSCR points out that it is not customary to pay to take part in a clinical trial [4]. An invoice presented as an entry fee for a study is the simplest warning signal to check, and the most reliable.
Stem cell transplant and injection, what is the difference?
Haematopoietic transplantation replaces the bone marrow after conditioning, in indications established in haematology. The injection of so-called stem cells for other diseases falls under unproven uses. They are two distinct procedures [5].
Sources & References
- Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé (ANSM). Promotion illégale de thérapie cellulaire : décision de police sanitaire. 2025. View the source
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Consumer Alert on Regenerative Medicine Products Including Stem Cells and Exosomes. 2024. View the source
- Kuriyan AE, Albini TA, Townsend JH, et coll. Vision Loss after Intravitreal Injection of Autologous “Stem Cells” for AMD. New England Journal of Medicine, 2017. View the source
- International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR). The ISSCR Guide to Stem Cell Treatments. 2024. View the source
- Passweg JR, Baldomero H, Chabannon C, et coll. Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on hematopoietic cell transplantation and cellular therapies in Europe 2020: a report from the EBMT activity survey. Bone Marrow Transplantation, 2022. View the source
