top of page
Search

Cryopreservation Techniques: Freezing Eggs, Sperm, and Embryos

  • Writer: Sakshi Goswami
    Sakshi Goswami
  • Aug 11
  • 1 min read
ree

Cryopreservation has revolutionized assisted reproductive technologies by enabling long-term storage of gametes and embryos. This blog explores the principles, techniques, and applications of cryopreservation in ART.


Principles of Cryopreservation


  1. Cryoprotectants:

    • Prevent ice crystal formation that can damage cellular structures.

    • Commonly used: Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), ethylene glycol, and glycerol.

  2. Freezing Methods:

    • Slow Freezing: Gradual temperature reduction to minimize thermal shock.

    • Vitrification: Ultra-rapid freezing to form a glass-like state, eliminating ice crystals.


Techniques for Cryopreservation


  1. Sperm Freezing:

    • Semen is mixed with cryoprotectant and frozen in liquid nitrogen.

    • Used for fertility preservation in cancer patients or donors.


  2. Oocyte Freezing:

    • Mature eggs are vitrified after retrieval and evaluation.

    • Beneficial for women delaying childbearing or undergoing medical treatments.


  3. Embryo Freezing:

    • Performed at the cleavage or blastocyst stage.

    • Allows for future transfer cycles without repeated ovarian stimulation.


Applications in ART


  1. Fertility Preservation:

    • For patients undergoing cancer treatment or elective preservation.

  2. Embryo Banking:

    • Facilitates genetic testing and staged embryo transfer.

  3. Donor Programs:

    • Enables the use of frozen donor eggs or sperm.


Challenges and Solutions


  1. Ice Crystal Formation: Overcome by optimized cryoprotectant use and vitrification techniques.

  2. Survival Rates: Advances in technology have significantly improved post-thaw viability.


Conclusion

Cryopreservation is a cornerstone of modern ART, offering flexibility, efficiency, and enhanced outcomes for diverse patient needs.


References

  1. Kuwayama, M., et al. (2005). Comparison of open and closed methods for vitrification of human oocytes and embryos. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 11(5), 608-614. Link

  2. Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2013). Fertility preservation in patients undergoing gonadotoxic therapy or gonadectomy: a committee opinion. Fertility and Sterility, 100(5), 1214-1223. Link

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page