Systemic Areas · 5 min read
Stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
How mesenchymal stem cells help balance the immune response, and how treatment works alongside your rheumatologist.
Short answer
In rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. Mesenchymal stem cells release signals that help balance that immune response. Studies report a favourable safety profile and improvements in disease activity. At Stemlife, treatment is offered as an adjunct to your rheumatologist’s plan, in a single day in Guadalajara.
In 30 seconds
- Mesenchymal stem cells help modulate an overactive immune response.
- Treatment works alongside the medication your rheumatologist prescribes.
- Your rheumatologist’s report and medication list are part of the assessment.
What happens in an autoimmune disease?
In autoimmune diseases the immune system, which normally protects you from infections, reacts against your own tissues. In rheumatoid arthritis it targets the lining of the joints; in lupus it can affect joints, skin and other organs. The result is inflammation, pain and fatigue that come and go in flares.
How can stem cells help?
Mesenchymal stem cells are known for their immunomodulatory effect: they release signals that help calm an overactive immune response and support a more balanced state. That is why they are studied in rheumatic and autoimmune conditions.
A 2023 meta-analysis in rheumatoid arthritis found a favourable safety profile and a trend toward clinical improvement. In lupus, a meta-analysis reported improvements in disease activity. A 2025 review across autoimmune and rheumatic diseases adds to this growing body of evidence.
How does it fit with my current treatment?
Treatment is an adjunct: it is added to the plan your rheumatologist already leads. Your medication continues as they indicate, and any adjustment is their decision. We send them our report so they have the full picture.
What does the process look like?
- A free review of your history, your rheumatologist’s report and your medication list.
- A written plan with dates and total cost.
- An intravenous application in a single day at Hospital Puerta de Hierro Andares.
- Follow-up at 30, 90 and 180 days, with a report for your rheumatologist.
Is this for you?
- You live with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus and your disease is stable under your rheumatologist’s care.
- You want a complementary approach to support your quality of life.
- You can share your rheumatologist’s report and your medication list.
Frequently asked questions
Which autoimmune conditions does Stemlife assess?
Mainly rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, as an adjunct to your rheumatologist’s treatment.
Do I keep taking my medication?
Yes. Your medication continues as your rheumatologist indicates, and any adjustment is their decision.
How is the treatment given?
Intravenously, in a single session at Hospital Puerta de Hierro Andares.
How much does it cost?
Systemic protocols are quoted after a free medical assessment, because they depend on each case.
Stemlife Clinic at a glance
- Location
- Guadalajara, Mexico · Hospital Puerta de Hierro Andares
- Cells
- Mesenchymal stem cells from Wharton’s jelly (umbilical cord)
- Treatment
- One application in a single day; plan 2–3 days in Guadalajara
- Price
- From USD 5,000, confirmed after a free medical assessment
Medically reviewed by Dr. Guillermo Quezada Navarro · November 2026
Sources
- NIAMS (NIH) · Rheumatoid arthritis
- NIAMS (NIH) · Lupus
- Safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells therapy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2023.
- Efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells on systemic lupus erythematosus: a meta-analysis. Beijing Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban. 2018.
General educational information. Individual results vary and are not guaranteed.
