Fundamental Aspects of Gamete Cryobiology

Journal für Reproduktionsmedizin und Endokrinologie - Journal of Reproductive Medicine and Endocrinology 2007; 4 (2): 78-91

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Keywords: Gamet,  Kryobiologie,  Plasmamembran,  cryoinjury,  gametes,  plasma membrane

The storage of reproductive cells and tissues in cryobanks and their use in reproductive medicine and biotechnology have become an indispensable part of modern science and clinical service. However, current methods have severe limitations, in particular resulting in sub-optimal maintenance of viability after freezing-thawing of gametes. The improvement of gamete cryopreservation systems is therefore of great importance for genetic resource banking, agriculture and human reproduction. So far, advances have been made largely via empirical rather than analytical approaches. When an analytical biophysical approach had been applied, severe discrepancies between theory and practice often have been revealed. A basic understanding of the cellular processes which accompany gamete cryopreservation is therefore necessary for successful development of the relevant technology. In particular, the concepts of biological variability between cell types, species and individuals, as well as of heterogeneity between cells of the same type must be considered. This review focuses essentially on the fundamental physical and chemical principles of gamete cryobiology and cryoinjury, as well as on the biological properties of gametes in different species that are mainly responsible for the heterogeneous outcome and poor rates of improvement in their cryotechnology.