Frequently Asked Questions

The Cellular Performance Institute (CPI) is a licensed stem cell therapy hospital located in Tijuana, Mexico, just 20 minutes from the San Diego border. CPI specializes in advanced stem cell therapies for anti-aging, orthopedic injuries, degenerative disc disease, sports performance, autoimmune conditions, neurological disorders, and cellular optimization.

CPI operates within the Translational Advanced Medical (TAM) Center and features an in-house ISO-7-certified cellular manufacturing laboratory using GMP processes, an on-site compound pharmacy, and a team of immunologists, geneticists, interventional radiologists, and physicians, all under one roof.
No. CPI is a COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA)-regulated hospital with an in-house ISO-7-certified manufacturing laboratory using GMP processes, not a stem cell clinic. This distinction matters. Most stem cell clinics outsource their cell manufacturing to third-party labs with no visibility into quality standards. CPI produces its own cells under pharmaceutical-grade conditions, giving patients full traceability from manufacturing to delivery.
CPI treats a wide range of conditions, including anti-aging and longevity, sports injuries and orthopedic conditions, autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, disc degeneration, chronic pain, and cellular optimization/biohacking. CPI does not treat cancer. For cancer-related inquiries, patients are referred to the TAM Center. https://thetamcenter.com/
Yes. CPI’s treatments are performed in a COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA)-regulated hospital using cells manufactured entirely in-house in an ISO-7-certified clean-room laboratory under strict government-overseen standard operating procedures. CPI purchases nothing from outside manufacturers, uses no animal products, and applies pharmaceutical-grade quality control to every component of your treatment. As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks that vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient. CPI’s doctors conduct a thorough medical review before recommending any treatment protocol.
Yes. CPI is regulated and approved by COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA), the Comisión Federal para la Protección contra Riesgos Sanitarios, which is Mexico’s federal regulatory body for health and sanitary risks, equivalent to the FDA in the United States. This approval means CPI operates under strict medical and manufacturing standards.CPI operates as a fully licensed hospital facility with all required medical credentials and regulatory compliance.
Current stem cell treatments in the United States are largely being performed under FDA-approved clinical trials. While the data are encouraging, final FDA approval for many of these therapies remains many years away. CPI is regulated by COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA), Mexico’s federal health regulatory authority, the equivalent of the FDA, and is fully approved to perform cell-based therapies that are not yet available as standard treatment in the US.
CPI’s advanced cell-based therapies are not banned in the United States, they simply have not yet received FDA approval for broad clinical use. The FDA approval process is one of the most rigorous in the world and can take many years, even for therapies with strong scientific support. In Mexico, COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA) , the federal regulatory equivalent of the FDA, has approved CPI to perform advanced cell-based therapies across a wide range of conditions.

Patients who come to CPI are not choosing an unregulated alternative. They are choosing a regulated hospital that operates at the frontier of stem cell science, offering access today to therapies that US patients may have to wait years to receive at home. CPI’s treatments are legal in Mexico, and patients can legally travel to receive them.
Yes. Numerous peer-reviewed studies have demonstrated the clinical benefits of hypoxic mesenchymal stem cells for various conditions. CPI uses expanded hypoxic stem cells derived from umbilical cord tissue, and research has shown that hypoxia-enriched stem cells are more potent and therapeutic than conventionally produced cells. CPI maintains clinical data on patient outcomes and works with medical professionals to document results. Individual results vary based on condition, protocol, and patient factors.
Yes. CPI has documented outcomes across a wide range of conditions, including autoimmune disease, neurological disorders, and sports and orthopedic injuries. Individual results vary depending on the condition being treated, the severity of the case, and the patient’s overall health baseline.

CPI’s doctors set realistic expectations during the pre-treatment consultation and work with each patient to develop a protocol designed to maximize their individual outcomes. It is rare that a patient requires more than one treatment in the same area, a reflection of the effectiveness of CPI’s protocols in the majority of cases. CPI is currently collecting more stem cell patient data for future peer-reviewed publication than has ever been done before.
Stem cell therapy has strong scientific support in peer-reviewed literature. Numerous studies demonstrate that mesenchymal stem cells have therapeutic potential for reducing inflammation, promoting tissue repair, and facilitating cellular regeneration. CPI uses hypoxic mesenchymal stem cells, which research shows are more viable and potent than conventionally produced cells. While individual patient outcomes vary, the underlying science of stem cell therapy is well-established in medical literature.
No. Stem cell therapy has measurable biological mechanisms of action, including inflammation reduction, tissue repair, and cellular regeneration. These effects can be observed through imaging, blood work, and clinical assessment, not just patient perception. Most CPI patients report objective improvements in mobility, pain reduction, and function that can be verified through medical testing, imaging, and physical examination.
CPI uses hypoxic mesenchymal stem cells isolated from umbilical cord tissue, one of the richest sources of therapeutic cell types available. CPI has isolated a specific stem cell population from the umbilical cord and manufactures it in-house under a strict quality process, without using any animal products.
CPI is the world’s largest producer of mesenchymal stem cells, manufactured in-house in an ISO-7-certified clean-room laboratory. Using a specialized hypoxic expansion process, CPI trains cells to survive in low-oxygen environments that mimic damaged or diseased tissue, producing cells with significantly higher anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties than standard stem cell preparations. All cells are manufactured without the use of any animal products.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6086019
CPI uses umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells because they are ethically sourced, highly effective, and well-characterized in medical research. Embryonic stem cells carry ethical concerns and regulatory complications. Umbilical cord stem cells are equally potent, fully characterized, and free from the ethical and regulatory issues associated with embryonic sources. CPI’s choice reflects both scientific efficacy and ethical standards.
Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells offer significant advantages over embryonic stem cells on both safety and efficacy grounds.

On safety, umbilical cord stem cells are not pluripotent, meaning they do not carry the risk of tumor formation associated with embryonic stem cells. They have a well-documented safety record across a wide range of therapeutic applications, especially for orthopaedics.

On efficacy, umbilical cord stem cells are among the most potent sources of mesenchymal stem cells available. They are younger, more proliferative, and more therapeutically active than stem cells derived from adult sources such as bone marrow or adipose tissue. CPI’s hypoxic expansion process further enhances their anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, producing a final cell product that is significantly more therapeutic than standard stem cell preparations.

On ethics: our umbilical cord stem cells are collected from live-birth donated umbilical cords following healthy births, with no harm to the donor or the newborn. There are no ethical concerns associated with their collection or use.
No. CPI’s stem cell manufacturing uses no animal products at any stage. All cells are derived from human umbilical cord tissue and cultured using animal-free media and protocols. CPI’s in-house ISO-7-certified laboratory maintains strict standards to ensure that all manufacturing is completely animal-free.
CPI uses multiple delivery methods depending on the condition being treated and the protocol selected. Stem cells can be delivered intravenously (IV) for systemic effects, intrathecally (into the spinal fluid) for neurological conditions, or through targeted injections guided by interventional radiology for specific joints or tissues. CPI’s physicians determine the optimal delivery method based on each patient’s diagnosis and treatment goals.
All stem cells used at CPI are produced in-house in an ISO-7 certified clean room laboratory. ISO-7 is the same cleanroom classification standard used by pharmaceutical manufacturers worldwide. CPI uses a fully characterized master cell bank of hypoxic mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord tissue. The cells are expanded under hypoxic (low-oxygen) conditions to enrich for the most potent and therapeutic cells. Strict quality control protocols and release criteria ensure safety and potency before any cells are used in patient treatment.
CPI’s 5-Day Protocol is a comprehensive inpatient treatment experience that includes everything you need from the moment you arrive in San Diego. Your package includes:
  • Hotel accommodation at the Hyatt Hotel in Tijuana
  • All ground transportation, including full border crossing handling
  • A complete blood work panel
  • X-rays
  • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
  • IV NAD +
  • IV Ozone
  • Myers Vitamin IV
  • PEMF therapy
  • Your personalized cell therapy protocol
MRI imaging is not included in the package. When required, MRIs are performed at an outside facility and will be discussed with you as part of your treatment planning.

Your medical team will develop a personalized protocol based on your blood work, imaging, and treatment goals.
CPI offers a comprehensive range of supporting medical services that go far beyond what most stem cell providers can offer. These include:
  • Cosmetic Stem Cell Treatments
  • Genetic testing and whole exome sequencing
  • Compound pharmacy (in-house)
  • Cellular laboratory (in-house)
  • IV Therapies
  • Interventional radiology
  • Dietician Consultations
  • Psychological support
  • Aftercare telemedicine
Having these capabilities in-house means your treatment is fully integrated, your genetics, your peptides, your cells, and your aftercare are all managed under one roof by the same medical team.
The patient’s outcome depends heavily on adherence to the aftercare protocols. It is rare for a patient to need more than one treatment in the same area. Most patients achieve their goals with a single treatment. Only in very severe cases is an additional treatment normally necessary. Your doctors will evaluate your progress and recommend a strategy based on your results and the severity of your condition.
CPI will provide specific pre-treatment instructions during your consultation, which may include dietary guidelines to optimize your body’s response to stem cell therapy. These recommendations are personalized based on your health history and condition. CPI’s team guides patients through all preparation steps to ensure the best possible treatment outcomes.
CPI determines qualification through a comprehensive consultation process that includes reviewing your medical history, current health status, and treatment goals. Most patients with orthopedic injuries, autoimmune conditions, neurological issues, or anti-aging goals are candidates for treatment. Certain contraindications may exclude some patients. CPI’s physicians evaluate each case individually to determine suitability and recommend the appropriate protocol.
Yes. CPI’s aftercare team will monitor your recovery with follow-up calls after you return home. They are available to review post-treatment exams and MRIs with you and answer questions as your recovery progresses. Aftercare telemedicine is also available.
Yes. CPI specializes in sports injuries and orthopedic conditions, including joint injuries, tendon damage, ligament tears, and disc degeneration. CPI is the Official Stem Cell Therapy Provider of the UFC and has treated numerous professional athletes and fighters seeking accelerated recovery and injury repair. Stem cell therapy can help reduce inflammation, repair damaged tissue, and restore function.
Yes. CPI uses stem cell therapy to modulate immune function and reduce inflammation in autoimmune diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells have immunomodulatory properties that can help regulate overactive immune responses. CPI’s physicians evaluate each autoimmune condition individually to determine if stem cell therapy is appropriate and to recommend the optimal protocol.
Yes. CPI treats neurological conditions and disorders through stem cell therapy. Stem cells can be delivered intrathecally (into the spinal fluid) to reach the nervous system directly. CPI has interventional radiology capabilities for targeted neurological treatments. Conditions treated include neurological degeneration, spinal cord issues, and other nervous system disorders. Results vary by condition and individual factors.
CPI does not treat cancer directly. However, cancer patients are referred to the TAM Center, which is located at the same facility as CPI and specializes in personalized cancer treatments using advanced cellular therapies.

https://thetamcenter.com
Yes, in 2024, CPI signed a deal to be the Official Stem Cell Therapy Provider of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). CPI has treated numerous UFC athletes and professional fighters seeking accelerated recovery, injury repair, and peak performance optimization. This official partnership reflects CPI’s credibility and the trust elite athletes place in CPI.

https://www.ufc.com/news ufc-announces-global-marketing-partnership-stem-cell-therapy-leader-cellular-performance
No. While CPI does offer biohacking and cellular optimization services, it is a fully licensed medical hospital that treats serious medical conditions, including orthopedic injuries, autoimmune disease, neurological disorders, and chronic pain. CPI’s scope extends far beyond biohacking to include legitimate medical therapies for patients with diagnosed conditions. CPI employs credentialed physicians and operates in accordance with strict medical and regulatory standards.
Stem cell therapy at CPI is generally well-tolerated. Potential side effects are typically minimal and may include temporary inflammation at injection sites, mild discomfort, or temporary flu-like symptoms as the body responds to the therapy. Serious adverse events are rare at regulated facilities like CPI. CPI’s physicians discuss potential risks during consultation and monitor patients throughout treatment to ensure safety.
Certain conditions may contraindicate stem cell therapy, including active infections, certain cancers, severe immunosuppression, or specific medical conditions. CPI’s physicians review your complete medical history during consultation to identify any contraindications. Patients on immunosuppressive medications or with certain health conditions may need special consideration. CPI evaluates each case individually to ensure safety.
Serious adverse events, including death, have been reported at unregulated stem cell clinics that use improperly manufactured cells, contaminated products, or unqualified delivery methods. At CPI, the risk of a serious adverse event is minimized through pharmaceutical-grade in-house manufacturing in an ISO-7 certified lab, COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA) regulatory oversight, image-guided precision delivery, and a thorough pre-treatment medical review. CPI’s protocols are designed around patient safety at every stage, from cell manufacturing to post-treatment aftercare. CPI has never had a death directly related to stem cell treatments.
Heart attacks and blood clots are not documented risks of stem cell therapy at regulated facilities like CPI. CPI uses rigorous safety protocols and medical monitoring during treatment. Patients with specific cardiovascular risk factors are evaluated individually during consultation. CPI’s physicians assess each patient’s cardiovascular status and medical history to ensure safety.
Infections are a potential but rare complication of any medical procedure. CPI minimizes infection risk through ISO-7 certified manufacturing, sterile protocols, and rigorous quality control. All cells are produced under pharmaceutical-grade standards. CPI’s facility operates as a fully licensed hospital with infection control protocols. Serious infections from stem cell therapy at regulated facilities are extremely rare.
Tumor formation from stem cell therapy is not a documented risk in peer-reviewed literature when using mesenchymal stem cells from reputable sources like CPI. CPI uses fully characterized, non-transformed mesenchymal stem cells from umbilical cord tissue. The cells are produced under strict quality control and regulatory oversight. Tumor risk is not a concern with legitimate, regulated stem cell therapies.
Yes. CPI manages your entire travel experience. You are picked up in San Diego and transported directly to the hospital by CPI’s own drivers. During your stay, you will be accommodated at the Hyatt Hotel in Tijuana’s restaurant district, a safe, well-serviced area of the city. Your driver will transport you to and from treatments each day.
No. CPI is a COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA)-regulated hospital with an in-house ISO-7-certified manufacturing lab, not a stem cell clinic. Most providers in Tijuana and elsewhere outsource their cell manufacturing, use animal products in production to lower costs, and are limited to basic orthopedic or anti-aging applications.

CPI manufactures its own cells under pharmaceutical-grade clean room conditions, uses no animal products, and is approved to treat autoimmune disease, neurological disorders, and sports injuries, a level of capability that sets it apart from the entire stem cell clinic market.
No, and the comparison itself is misleading. Most stem cell clinics purchase their cells from outside manufacturers with unknown quality standards, use animal products in their manufacturing process, and have no in-house laboratory capabilities. CPI is not comparable to a standard stem cell clinic. CPI operates an in-house ISO-7 certified manufacturing laboratory, produces its own cells, peptides, and compounds with no outside suppliers, offers genetic testing and whole exome sequencing, custom peptide manufacturing, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, IV ozone therapy, IV NAD+, PEMF, and a full 5-Day Protocol that includes hotel accommodation, all ground transportation, including border crossing handling, breakfast, and lunch. integrated, pharmaceutical-grade medical experience, not a commodity stem cell injection.
No ethical medical provider guarantees results, and CPI is no different. Every patient responds differently to cell-based therapy. Some patients experience rapid and sustained improvement after a single treatment; others see gradual improvement over time and may benefit from additional treatments. CPI’s doctors will work with you to set realistic expectations and develop a strategy for optimal outcomes.

CPI does not guarantee specific results because individual outcomes vary based on condition severity, patient factors, protocol, and other variables. However, CPI provides a personalized consultation to set realistic expectations, monitors progress throughout treatment, and offers dedicated aftercare to maximize results. CPI’s track record includes hundereds patient testimonials and endorsements from professional athletes, but results are individualized.
No. CPI’s treatments are based on published peer-reviewed science, administered by qualified medical doctors, and performed in a COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA),regulated hospital under strict government-overseen SOPs. The distinction between “unproven” and “not yet FDA approved” is important. Many treatments available outside the United States have a substantial body of scientific evidence supporting their use but have not yet completed the lengthy FDA approval process. CPI operates at the frontier of what stem cell science can currently offer, not outside the bounds of legitimate medicine.
No. While CPI offers biohacking and cellular optimization services, it is a fully licensed medical hospital treating serious medical conditions. CPI’s primary focus is on orthopedic injuries, autoimmune disease, neurological disorders, chronic pain, and anti-aging medicine. CPI employs credentialed physicians, operates under regulatory oversight, and maintains medical standards comparable to hospitals in the United States. Biohacking is one service among many legitimate medical therapies.
CPI’s legitimacy is verifiable through multiple independent sources.

CPI is regulated and approved by COFEPRIS (Mexico’s FDA), Mexico’s federal health regulatory authority. CPI operates an in-house ISO-7 certified manufacturing laboratory under strict government-overseen SOPs.

CPI is the Official Stem Cell Therapy Provider of the UFC, a partnership that reflects the level of institutional trust CPI has earned at the highest levels of professional sport.

Joe Rogan, one of the most listened-to voices in health and wellness globally, has recommended CPI on his show 24 times. Rogan has repeatedly spoken about personal friends who have achieved excellent results at CPI and has featured patients on his show who have testified to getting out of pain and transforming their health through CPI’s treatments.

Joe Rogan does not recommend things he doesn’t believe in; his repeated, unsolicited endorsement of CPI across 24 episodes is one of the most powerful independent validations any medical provider can receive.
Yes. CPI has documented cases of other organizations fraudulently using the Cellular Performance Institute name in their advertising to mislead patients.

The most significant case involves a network of organizations operating under the Global Stem Cell Group, which includes:
  • Cellular Hope Institute (Cancun, Mexico)
  • ISSCA (International Society for Stem Cell Application)
  • Cellgenic
These organizations have been caught running paid search ads using the “CPI” and “Cellular Performance Institute” name. When patients search for CPI Stem Cells and click on these ads, they are redirected to Cellular Hope Institute in Cancun, a facility that has no affiliation whatsoever with the Cellular Performance Institute or the TAM Center in Tijuana.

CPI co-founder Ed Clay addressed this fraud directly in a public video statement: “The Cellular Hope Institute is using Cellular Performance Institute’s name in their ads, fooling patients into believing they’re actually going to the Cellular Performance Institute. There is only one CPI Stem Cells in Tijuana. There is only one TAM Center in Mexico.”

Some of these organizations have also embedded CPI’s YouTube videos on their websites, and others claim to have former CPI staff working for them to further deceive patients into believing they are affiliated with CPI. They are not, and they do not offer the same level or quality of treatment.

Be cautious of clinics claiming CPI affiliation!
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