Kryoprotektiivisillä

Kryoprotektiivisillä, often translated as cryoprotectants, are substances that prevent the formation of ice crystals and reduce chilling injury when biological tissues or cells are exposed to low temperatures. They work by lowering the freezing point of water and increasing its viscosity, thereby minimizing the damage caused by the physical disruption of ice crystals. This is crucial for various applications such as cryopreservation, which involves storing biological material at very low temperatures, often below -130 degrees Celsius, for extended periods.

Common cryoprotective agents include glycerol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and ethylene glycol. These agents are typically added to the extracellular or intracellular environment of the cells or tissues. The choice of cryoprotectant depends on the specific biological material being preserved and the intended application. Some cryoprotectants can be toxic at higher concentrations, necessitating careful optimization of their usage. Cryoprotectants are essential for preserving cells, tissues, organs, and even whole organisms for research, medical therapies, and reproductive technologies. Their development and application have significantly advanced the field of cryobiology.