Compositions and Methods for Biopreservation

Abstract

Methods are disclosed for viable preservation of biomaterials including both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells/materials such as human cells and tissues at subzero and suprazero temperatures. One embodiment provides a method wherein initial desiccation and subsequent cooling of the biospecimen is below their glass transition temperature (Tg) to achieve a stable glassy state without exposing the biomaterials to excessive osmotic/chemical stresses for long periods of time. Another embodiment provides a method that includes combining the initial desiccation with subsequent freeze-drying to achieve a glassy state of biomaterials. Another embodiment provides a desiccation medium with low salt, high osmolyte/glass former content and desiccation of biomaterials in a spherical droplet to avoid the so-called edge effect.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.