CryoStore: New techniques for visualising and characterising freeze damage using Raman spectroscopy

The Institute of Multiphase Processes is leading two projects within the European Union's Horizon Europe programme 'CryoStore'. This project is one of them and is concerned with the development of advanced techniques for the visualisation and characterisation of freezing and thawing damage to reproductive cells. In collaboration with various international partner institutions, the understanding of the diffusion kinetics of cryoprotectants (CPAs) and cryoprotective additives (CAAs) in reproductive cells is being investigated. This research uses non-invasive RAMAN spectroscopy to monitor the diffusion of multiple mixed components in real time as CPAs/VAs are added or removed. Temperature sensitive diffusion will be analysed by constructing a special diffusion chamber with precise temperature control from -30°C to +4°C. This provides a basis for improving cryopreservation procedures with minimal damage to the cell membrane and structural integrity of the cells.