The need for novel cryoprotectants and cryopreservation protocols: Insights into the importance of biophysical investigation and cell permeability

Author(s)
Raju, Rekha
Bryant, Saffron J
Wilkinson, Brendan L
Bryant, Gary
Publication Date
2021-01
Abstract
<p><i>Background:</i> Cryopreservation is a key method of preservation of biological material for both medical treatments and conservation of endangered species. In order to avoid cellular damage, cryopreservation relies on the addition of a suitable cryoprotective agent (CPA). However, the toxicity of CPAs is a serious concern and often requires rapid removal on thawing which is time consuming and expensive.</p><p><i>Scope of review:</i> The principles of Cryopreservation are reviewed and recent advances in cryopreservation methods and new CPAs are described. The importance of understanding key biophysical properties to assess the cryoprotective potential of new non-toxic compounds is discussed.</p><p><i>Major conclusions:</i> Knowing the biophysical properties of a particular cell type is crucial for developing new cryopreservation protocols. Similarly, understanding how potential CPAs interact with cells is key for optimising protocols. For example, cells with a large osmotically inactive volume may require slower addition of CPAs. Similarly, a cell with low permeability may require a longer incubation time with the CPA to allow adequate penetration. Measuring these properties allows efficient optimisation of cryopreservation protocols.</p><p><i>General significance:</i> Understanding the interplay between cells and biophysical properties is important not just for developing new, and better optimised, cryopreservation protocols, but also for broader research into topics such as dehydration and desiccation tolerance, chilling and heat stress, as well as membrane structure and function.</p>
Citation
Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - General Subjects, 1865(1), p. 1-11
ISSN
1872-8006
0304-4165
Pubmed ID
32980500
Link
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Title
The need for novel cryoprotectants and cryopreservation protocols: Insights into the importance of biophysical investigation and cell permeability
Type of document
Journal Article
Entity Type
Publication

Files:

NameSizeformatDescriptionLink
closedpublished/TheNeedWilkinson2021JournalArticle.pdf 3578.554 KB application/pdf Published version View document