A State of the Art Review of Isochoric Cryopreservation and Cryoprotectants

Abstract

There is a developing enthusiasm for discovering new methods, cryoprotectants, systems and devices for cells, tissues, and organ preservation in medicine, in sub-zero temperature conditions and a growing interest in developing more efficient and economical methods for long-term preservation of food in a frozen state. Most of the preservation protocols currently used in medicine and food preservation involve the use of atmospheric pressure, and temperatures lower than normal body temperature in medicine, or lower than room temperature in the food industry. In this state of the art review, we analyzed the results of a new preservation method that uses an isochoric system. We aimed to offer a clear overview of the potential of this new technology. Firstly, to study the origins of isochoric preservation, we searched using the WoS Database. A search with the world "isochoric" returned 488 results. A more specific search of the term "isochoric freezing" returned 94 results. From these searches, we selected the 12 most relevant articles and discuss them here in detail. We present an overall characterization and criticism of the current use and potential of this new preservation method that can be used in the medicine and food industry. The main findings indicate encouraging results for the tested biological matter, including for the preservation of food products (e.g.cherries, spinach, potatoes), biological organisms (e. g. Caenorhabditis elegans, Escherichia coli, Listeria, Salmonella typhimurium), organs (e.g. rat hearts), tissues (e. g., tilapia fish filets) or cells (e. g., mammalian cells, pancreatic cells). Accordingly, we conclude that the isochoric system holds huge potential as a new technique in the field of preservation.