Krioprezerválás

Krioprezerválás, also known as cryopreservation or cryonics, is a process of preserving biological material or cells at very low temperatures, typically around -196 degrees Celsius, using liquid nitrogen. The primary goal is to halt all biological activity, including decomposition and cellular decay, effectively suspending the specimen in time. This technique is widely used in various scientific and medical fields.

In medicine, krioprezerválás is employed for the long-term storage of reproductive cells such as sperm, eggs, and embryos. This allows individuals to preserve their fertility for various reasons, including medical treatments like chemotherapy or as part of assisted reproductive technologies. Stem cells, harvested from sources like umbilical cord blood, are also routinely cryopreserved for potential future therapeutic use.

Beyond human applications, krioprezerválás is crucial for preserving biodiversity. Seeds from endangered plant species can be stored in seed banks, providing a genetic safeguard against extinction. Zoos and research institutions also use krioprezerválás to store genetic material from animals, such as sperm, eggs, and tissues, which can be used for breeding programs or genetic research. The success of krioprezerválás relies on careful control of the cooling and warming processes to minimize damage to the cells from ice crystal formation and other cryoinjury.