Current Synthetic and Systems Biology
Open Access

Abstract

A Review of Cryopreservation of Cells by Ice Recrystallization Inhibitors (IRIs)

Aqsa Sattar, Hafsa Ijaz, Iqra Azam*, Mamoona Idrees and Minahil Azam

Cryopreservation is a process that preserves structurally intact live cells and tissues by freezing them at tremendously low temperatures for prolonged periods. Ice recrystallization is the major restraint in the cryopreservation of cells, resulting in lethal cryoinjury. Ice Recrystallization Inhibitors (IRIs), low molecular weight cryo-protectants, restrict the ice growth and alleviate cell injury during the process of freezing. They may possess the ability to enter the cells and alter their cryo-biological response to freezing and influence intracellular ice recrystallization as well. In the presence of abridged quantities of all CPAs including glycerol, ice recrystallization inhibitors can shield the cells against cryoinjury during the recrystallization process and can also be used as effective cryo-additives to freeze cells significantly Red Blood Cells (RBCs). One efficient cryo-additive reticent ice nucleation rather than ice recrystallization indicates the pertinence of blocking both processes along with underlining the relevance of this evolving class of Cryo-Protective Agents (CPAs). Cryopreservation approaches for certain cells i.e. RBCs have been revealed to be extremely successful and extensively applied but for other cells have proven to be challenging. Subsequently, this is due to the multifaceted nature of the freeze-thaw injury, the intricacy of preserving organic matter, and the erraticism of procedures and regulations used across the world. This review will focus on the cryopreservation of RBCs in the presence of Ice Recrystallization Inhibitors (IRIs).

Published Date: 2023-03-22; Received Date: 2022-12-28