Autologous vs. Allogeneic: What’s the difference? 

Stem cell therapy has come a long way in veterinary medicine. Early approaches focused on autologous treatments, where stem cells were harvested from the patient, processed, and reinjected. While groundbreaking, these therapies came with logistical and biological challenges.

Today, a new model is emerging: allogeneic therapy, using donor-derived stem cells that are ready to use “off-the-shelf.” This evolution is not just about convenience—it represents a step forward in safety, availability, and clinical integration.

Note: Gallant’s therapies are investigational and not yet approved for commercial use. All studies are conducted under FDA oversight.

What Is Autologous Stem Cell Therapy?

Autologous therapy uses a patient’s own cells. Typically, bone marrow or fat is removed from the patient, that tissue is processed or cultured, and the final product is re-administered to the same animal. The amount of stem cells obtained through this process can be highly variable depending on the technique employed. This approach was once the only viable option for stem cell use in veterinary care.

Limitations to this approach include:

• Requires the patient to undergo anesthesia and surgery for tissue collection
• Potential for long processing times
• No product standardization
• Variable cell quality due to age or health status of the animal

The Shift Toward Allogeneic Therapies

Allogeneic stem cell therapy uses cells donated from healthy, pre-screened animals. These donor cells are processed in a controlled facility and formulated into consistent, ready-to-use doses.

This model addresses many of the limitations of autologous therapy.

Benefits of allogeneic therapy:

• No harvesting or surgery required
• Standardized product with FDA-regulated quality control
• Available on-demand as needed

Allogeneic therapies are being studied across multiple inflammatory and degenerative indications, where chronic medications often fall short.

A Step Forward in Veterinary Care

The transition from autologous to allogeneic reflects a broader trend in veterinary medicine: moving from customized, case-by-case solutions to regulated, scalable therapies that can be adopted in everyday practice.

Gallant’s investigational therapies are part of this next generation—designed with veterinarians in mind and developed with rigorous quality, safety, and FDA alignment at every step.

Still Under Investigation

Gallant’s therapies are currently being evaluated through FDA-authorized clinical trials. While promising, they are not yet approved for commercial use.

Ongoing studies will help determine how allogeneic therapies may be integrated into veterinary care safely, effectively, and responsibly.

Interested in Participating?

We’re actively enrolling for studies exploring stem cell therapy for a variety of conditions.

Learn more about participation and locations.

Disclaimer

Gallant’s investigational stem cell therapies are not commercially available. These veterinary products may be available through participation in a study at a qualified clinic under FDA-authorized protocols. This blog is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.