X-Message-Number: 28526
Date: Thu, 28 Sep 2006 13:52:01 +0400
From: Igor Artyuhov <>
Subject: A new approach to vitrification?
References: <>

Hi All,

A few days ago a recent paper (Igor I. Katkov et al. 'Low- and 
high-temperature vitrification as a new approach to biostabilization of 
reproductive and progenitor cells'. International Journal of 
Refrigeration 29 (2006) pp. 346 357) was introduced to me by its main 
author, Igor Katkov from UCSD Cancer Center in San Diego. As one can see 
from its title, the work mainly concerns cells (and, in fact, embryo) 
preservation. Nevertheless, it seems to me of interest for cryonicists.

Here is the Abstract:

Cells held in a liquid milieu undergo processes that cause progressive 
loss of viability. To prevent such degradation, cells need to be placed 
in conditions that essentially stop all chemical reactions for the 
duration of the time of storage. Because intracellular ice formation is 
lethal to most eukaryotic cells, stable storage of viable cells can be 
achieved only if intracellular vitrification without ice formation has 
occurred. This has been done by several methods, including equilibrium 
(slow) freezing, lyophilization (freeze-drying), and ice-free 
vitrification at subzero temperatures at moderate-to high cooling rates 
in the presence of cryoprotectants ('conventional' vitrification). In 
this paper, we discuss the mechanisms of vitrification, and specific 
aspects, advantages, and pitfalls of the different approaches. 
Particular emphasis is put on novel methods of cell preservation, such 
as cryoprotectant-free vitrification of sperm and high temperature 
vitrification by air/vacuum drying of progenitor and other nucleated cells.

Merry Eternity!
Igor Artyuhov.

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