Cryopreservation (storage of frozen cells)

it has for many years been technically possible to freeze a wide variety of cells in order to thaw them months or even years later without them having suffered any major damage.

The problem of freezing cells in order to preserve them lies in the destruction of the cell organelles required for their further development. This is primarily due to the formation of ice during the freezing process due to the fact that the cells consist predominantly of water. Another potential source of problems is the flow of fluid resulting from osmotic gradients within the cell. While the addition of an antifreeze agent reduces the risk, it also has a potential risk.

Nitrogen storage container

Carefully labelled straws are placed in the storage tank.

There are two processes used for cryopreservation:

• So-called slow cooling, i.e. gradual freezing Information on slow-cooling also know as slow-freezing

• Rapid freezing, Information on vitrification