frysesentrum

A frysesentrum is a facility dedicated to freezing and cryopreservation of biological materials. It is used by research institutions, hospitals, biobanks, and industry to preserve samples by lowering temperatures to levels where biological processes slow to a halt, thereby extending the viability and usable life of specimens such as cells, tissues, gametes, and DNA.

Core technologies include storage with liquid nitrogen in cryogenic dewars and vapor-phase systems, as well as mechanical ultra-low freezers that reach approximately -80 C, with some setups capable of -150 to -196 C. Samples are organized in racks or boxes and are typically labeled and tracked with barcodes and digital records. Temperature monitoring, alarm systems, and redundant power supplies are standard to maintain sample integrity.

Applications span biobanking for research and clinical trials, fertility clinics storing sperm, oocytes, and embryos, and preservation of hematopoietic cells, immune cells, cell lines, and other biomaterials. Frysesentre also support archival storage of DNA, RNA, and tissue specimens for future analyses or therapies.

Operations emphasize traceability, quality management, and regulatory compliance. This often includes accreditation to biobanking standards (such as ISO 20387), documented chain of custody, informed consent handling, and data protection for associated donor information. Safety measures address risks associated with cryogens, including cold burns, asphyxiation hazards, and spill or overflow scenarios, along with proper ventilation and handling procedures.