Cryomacroscopy in 3D: A Device Prototype for the Study of Cryopreservation

This study presents a new device prototype for visualization of physical effects associated with large-scale cryopreservation—the preservation of tissues at very low temperatures. Cryopreservation represents the only method for long-term preservation of biomaterials. While techniques for cryopreservation of single cells and small tissue structures are well established, cryopreservation techniques for bulky tissues and organs are still at the developmental stage. Critical to the success of cryopreservation is the control of ice formation—the cornerstone of cryoinjury. One of the most promising techniques for large-scale cryopreservation is known as vitrification, where the crystal phase is suppressed, and the biological material is trapped in a glassy-like state (vitreous in Latin means glassy) [1].