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Stem Cell Therapy for Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes

We provide advanced stem cell therapy for diabetes, including type 1 and type 2, designed to support insulin function and improve metabolic balance with promising success rates. Our regenerative protocol is designed to help support pancreatic health, modulate chronic inflammation, and promote metabolic stability.

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Reviewed: 19 Apr 2026

What Is Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to insufficient insulin production, impaired insulin function, or both.

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy.

Type 2 Diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it. It is often associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle factors.

If not properly managed, diabetes may contribute over time to complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney impairment, neuropathy, and retinopathy.

Effective management requires long-term medical monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and appropriate pharmacological treatment.

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Why Seek Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetes in Costa Rica?

At Stem Cells Transplant Institute in Costa Rica, MSC-based therapy is offered as a complementary approach for patients managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Treatment is delivered in San José under physician supervision within a certified clinical facility with protocols designed to integrate with existing medical management. These programs are intended for patients exploring investigational options alongside standard therapy, particularly in cases where glycemic control or disease-related complications persist.

Patients from the United States, Canada, and Europe travel to San José to access regenerative medicine programs not available in their home countries at an affordable cost.

Before scheduling therapy, all patients undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation. This review is conducted in coordination with the patient’s treating physician and typically includes: HbA1c, kidney function, cardiovascular risk profile, and current insulin or oral medication regimen.The clinical team will ensure that appropriate medication management is maintained during and after the visit.

Common Characteristics

  • Elevated blood glucose levels
  • Fatigue and reduced energy levels
  • Increased hunger or thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Vision changes
  • Numbness or tingling in hands/feet
  • Increased susceptibility of infections
Evidence-Based Treatment

Why Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetes?

Mesenchymal stem cells are being actively studied for their immunomodulatory and regenerative properties in metabolic and autoimmune conditions. 

Current research suggests that mesenchymal stem cells may help support immune balance in autoimmune processes (in Type 1 diabetes), modulate chronic inflammation associated with insulin resistance (Type 2 diabetes), promote a more favorable metabolic environment and support pancreatic tissue health.

While MSC therapy is not a cure for diabetes, emerging clinical studies indicate potential supportive benefits when used alongside standard medical treatment. Outcomes may vary depending on individual metabolic status, disease progression, and overall health.

(Evidence remains preliminary and ongoing clinical trials are required to confirm these effects.)

1

Immune Regulation (Primarily Type 1)

MSCs may help modulate immune responses by influencing T-cell activity and inflammatory cytokine signaling. This mechanism is particularly relevant in autoimmune conditions such as Type 1 diabetes.(Ezquer et al., 2008)

2

Reduction of Chronic Inflammation

MSCs may help modulate pro-inflammatory pathways and support a more balanced inflammatory environment. (Hu et al., 2016)

3

Support of Pancreatic Microenvironment

Rather than directly regenerating pancreatic beta cells, MSCs may help support the local tissue environment through the release of growth factors and signaling molecules that promote cellular resilience and vascular support. (Xie et al., 2023)

4

Metabolic Signaling Effects

Emerging evidence suggests MSC-derived factors may influence metabolic regulation pathways, potentially contributing to improved metabolic stability in selected patients. (El-Badawy, et al., 2016)

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Expected Benefits and Clinical Observations

Although individual responses vary widely, published studies and clinical observations have reported potential supportive improvement in the following functional domains:

Improved insulin sensitivity (Type 2)
10-30%
Blood glucose stability
15-35%
Decrease in insulin supplementation
10-25%
Reduction in inflammation markers
20-40%
Metabolic stability
15-30%
Icono que simboliza la estrategia y el proceso cognitivo, mostrando una silueta de cabeza humana con un engranaje mecánico en su interior.

*These percentages summarizes ranges reported in selected clinical studies and observational cohorts under controlled conditions and standardized outcomes measures. They are not specific to any single study or to treatments performed at Stem Cells Transplant Institute. They should not be interpreted as averages, promises, or guaranteed results for individual patients. Evidence for MSC therapy in Diabetes disease remains preliminary, and ongoing controlled clinical trials are still evaluating the magnitude, durability and consistency of these effects. All observations should be considered exploratory and hypothesis-generating rather than definitive proof of efficacy.

Timeline of Reported Improvements

 Published studies and patient-reported outcomes suggest that improvements after mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for Diabetes Type 1 and 2 may develop gradually over time. These timelines are illustrative summaries rather than predictions, and individual responses vary significantly.

1-3 months
Early changes in inflammatory markers and metabolic indicators have been evaluated in some clinical protocols.
3-6 months
Reported changes in HbA1c levels, C-peptide measurements, and insulin requirements in selected study populations.
6-12 months
Continued follow-up of metabolic markers and insulin requirements in some trials.

*These timelines summarize patterns reported across selected published studies and observational cohorts. They are not specific predictions, and they do not represent expected outcomes for any individual patient. Individual experiences vary considerably, and some patients may experience minimal or no improvement. Evidence for MSC therapy for diabetes remains preliminary, and larger controlled clinical trials are needed to validate these observations. All timelines should be interpreted as exploratory and non-confirmatory.

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Patient Stories & Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Stem cell therapy does not cure Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Current research suggests that MSC therapy may help support aspects of metabolic regulation in selected patients. However, it is not a replacement for insulin therapy or other standard medical treatments.

MSC therapy for diabetes is considered investigational and is intended as a complementary approach alongside conventional care. Individual responses vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Most patients should expect to continue their prescribed insulin or diabetes medications unless otherwise directed by their treating physician.

Pricing is personalized based on the proposed treatment protocol, including cell dosage, number of administrations, and individual medical considerations.

SCTI provides a detailed estimate following a clinical review of your medical history and relevant laboratory records.

In Costa Rica, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is offered by specialized clinics, including the Stem Cells Transplant Institute, as a supportive approach for individuals with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

Treatment protocols may include intravenous MSC administration and, in selected cases, targeted applications depending on individual medical evaluation.

These interventions are designed to support metabolic regulation and modulate inflammatory processes through paracrine signaling mechanisms. MSC therapy for diabetes remains investigational and is intended to complement standard medical care.

Because diabetes is a complex, long-term condition, outcomes vary significantly from person to person.

Rather than focusing on a single “success rate,” treatment goals are individualized and may include supportive metabolic regulation and symptom management. Stem cell therapy for diabetes is not considered a cure and is intended to complement standard medical care.

Individual responses depend on multiple factors, including disease duration, baseline metabolic control, overall health status, and adherence to ongoing medical management.

Many patients choose hotels near the clinic in Escazú or Santa Ana, where medical facilities, pharmacies, and restaurants are easily accessible. Some clinics also offer transportation, airport pickup, and hotel coordination to make the experience smoother.

Yes. We offer virtual medical consultations where you can securely share your medical history, laboratory results, current medications, and clinical questions.

After a clinical review of this information, our medical team can provide a preliminary treatment proposal, explain the therapeutic approach, discuss potential risks and expectations, and determine whether you may be an appropriate candidate for further in-person evaluation.

Final treatment decisions are made following comprehensive medical assessment upon arrival.

Stem cell therapy may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, including:

  • Active infections
  • Uncontrolled or unstable medical conditions (such as advanced cardiac or renal failure)
  • Active malignancy or recent cancer treatment history
  • Clinically significant bleeding disorders
  • Pregnancy
  • Severe immunosuppression

Eligibility is determined through a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure the proposed treatment is safe and appropriate for each individual patient.

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Key Research Studies

Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetes Mellitus: Meta-Analysis

PLOS ONE • 2016

Meta-analysis evaluating clinical efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy in patients with diabetes mellitus, showing potential improvements in metabolic control.

View published study

Bone Marrow Stem Cell Transplantation in Type 2 Diabetes

Cell Transplantation • 2014

Randomized placebo-controlled trial assessing safety and therapeutic effects of autologous bone marrow-derived stem cell transplantation in type 2 diabetes patients.

View published study

Umbilical Cord MSC Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes

Stem Cells and Development • 2010

Phase I/II clinical study evaluating safety and metabolic improvements following umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in type 2 diabetes.

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Wharton’s Jelly MSCs in Type 2 Diabetes

Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine • 2016

Clinical study evaluating long-term safety and metabolic outcomes of Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells in type 2 diabetes patients.

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MSC Therapy for Diabetic Nephropathy via Paracrine Effects

Scientific Reports • 2016

Experimental study demonstrating that mesenchymal stem cells may improve diabetic nephropathy through paracrine signaling and regenerative mechanisms.

View published study

Mesenchymal Stem Cells Reverse Hyperglycemia in Diabetes Models

Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation • 2008

Preclinical study showing systemic administration of mesenchymal stem cells reduced hyperglycemia and prevented complications in diabetic models.

View published study
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San José, Costa Rica

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info@stemcellstransplantinstitute.com

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