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Cryoprotectants

Meaning

Cryoprotectants are chemical agents utilized in cryopreservation protocols to mitigate the cellular damage caused by freezing and thawing processes, particularly the formation of intracellular ice crystals. These compounds function by lowering the freezing point of the solution and increasing the total solute concentration, thereby reducing the amount of ice formed and minimizing osmotic stress. In the context of fertility and longevity, cryoprotectants are indispensable for the successful preservation of gametes, embryos, and ovarian or testicular tissue. The effective use of these agents is paramount for maintaining cellular viability and functional integrity post-thaw.