Become a donor
Save lives. Advance research. Shape the future.
By donating your cells, you actively support the development of new therapies for cancer and other serious illnesses.
Across the globe, research institutions, universities, and pharmaceutical companies are working to develop innovative cell and immunotherapies — treatments that offer new hope, especially for people who no longer respond to conventional therapies.
This is where the Cell Community comes in: We connect people like you with the science that can change lives.
Register now and become part of the Cell Community.
Your contribution matters — for the medicine of tomorrow.
Cell Donation. Everything you need to know – procedure, types of donation & your safety
Here you’ll find all the key information about the different types of cell donation, how the process works, and how we make sure your health is always protected.
From your first appointment to aftercare – we’re by your side: professionally, transparently, and personally.
Preliminary medical check – Your health comes first
Before most donations, a short medical check-up is required. It usually takes 20–30 minutes and includes:
- A personal consultation with a doctor
- A small blood sample
The exact process may vary depending on the type of donation. You’ll receive full details when we book your appointment.
Types of cell donation at a glance
At our Cellex Collection Center in Mediapark 5c Cologne, we offer several types of donation – all safe, well-coordinated, and medically supervised:
- Duration: 3–5 hours
- Via cell separator (like plasma or platelet donation)
- You relax while reading, listening to music, or watching a movie
- Up to 4 donations per year
2. Stem Cell Donation (Mobilized Cells)
- Same procedure as lymphocyte donation
- Preparation: 4 days of G-CSF preparation to mobilize stem cells (with clear instructions)
- Via both arms using a cell separation device
- Max. 1 donation per 12 months, max. 2 in a lifetime
3. Bone Marrow Donation
- Under general anesthesia
- Procedure time: 10–20 minutes
- Same-day discharge possible after observation
- Volume: Up to 100 ml bone marrow taken from the pelvic bone
- Max. 1 per 12 months, max. 2 in a lifetime
4. Whole Blood Donation
- Procedure time: approx. 30 minutes
- Volumes: 100 ml, 250 ml, or 500 ml (depending on the research project)
- Up to 6 donations per year
5. Mobilized Whole Blood Donation
- Procedure time: approx. 30 minutes
- Preparation: 4 days of G-CSF injections
- Volumes: 100–500 ml depending on research
- Max. 1 per 12 months, max. 2 in a lifetime
Compensation for your time and effort
For each donation, you’ll receive monetary compensation – depending on the type of donation, time involved, and any travel requirements.
It’s not a “payment,” but rather a symbolic appreciation for your support.
Our team will inform you personally and confidentially about the exact amount.
You have questions?
+49 221 2509 2630
Donor safety & medical responsibility
Your well-being is our top priority. That’s why we follow strict medical guidelines and allow for recovery periods after each donation.
- Cellex holds all necessary manufacturing licenses and ethical approvals
- Over 50,000 safe cell and stem cell donations since 2001
- Care by trained transfusion specialists and experienced nursing team
More about cell donation in this video
You know someone who would love to support medical research? Then share the message!
Simply save the graphic on your smartphone, tablet or laptop — and pass it on via WhatsApp, Instagram or Facebook.
Thank you for being part of the Cell Community. Your support makes a difference.
Have you donated cells and would like to share your story?
Have you already donated cells and want to share your experience? We’d love to hear your story! You might inspire others to become donors too.