Not All Stem Cells Are the Same: Why Quality Matters
8/17/2026
Not All Stem Cells Are the Same: Why Quality Matters
In regenerative medicine, where a biologic product comes from and how it is tested matter.
At Align Healing Center, we are very selective about the regenerative biologic companies we trust. We look for companies that take sourcing, processing, testing, and quality control seriously and that provide documentation, including Certificates of Analysis, or COAs, for the products they supply.
For us, quality starts with knowing that the companies we work with are doing their due diligence.
What Is a Certificate of Analysis?
A Certificate of Analysis is essentially a laboratory report for a specific batch or lot of a biologic product.
Depending on the product, a COA may include information such as:
- Cell count
- Cell viability
- Sterility testing
- Endotoxin testing
- Mycoplasma testing
- Cell characterization
- Lot identification and traceability
This documentation gives our medical team additional information about the product being supplied and is one factor we consider when choosing the companies we work with.
Why Quality Matters
Not all regenerative biologic products are sourced, processed or tested in exactly the same way.
With products containing mesenchymal stem cells, or MSCs, and MUSE cells, we believe careful sourcing and quality-control practices are important.
A vial labeled “stem cells” does not tell the entire story. Information about cell viability, characterization, sterility, processing, and lot traceability can help provide a clearer picture of the product.
While no regenerative product can guarantee a particular result, we believe it is important to begin with products that have been carefully sourced and supported by meaningful quality documentation.
Understanding MSCs and MUSE Cells
MSCs, or mesenchymal stem cells, are cells that have been widely researched for their biological properties and their interactions with surrounding tissues.
MUSE cells, short for Multilineage-differentiating Stress Enduring cells, are a unique cell population that continues to be studied in regenerative medicine.
Research into both cell types continues to evolve, which is another reason we feel it is important to work with companies that are transparent about their products and provide supporting documentation.
Why We Are Selective
At Align, we look for regenerative biologic companies that demonstrate careful sourcing, appropriate testing, and clear quality documentation.
That extra level of due diligence helps us make thoughtful decisions about the products we are comfortable offering in our practice.
If you are considering stem cell therapy, ask these simple questions:
Where does the product come from? What testing has been done? Is there a COA?
Those are fair questions, and we believe patients should feel comfortable asking them.
Our goal is to help you understand your options and make an informed decision about your care.
To learn more about regenerative medicine at Align Healing Center, call 925-362-8283 to schedule a consultation.