Preservation of Cells: A Comprehensive Guide

By Allison Hubel, a renowned expert in cell preservation, this book provides a step-by-step guide on developing or debugging a preservation protocol for cells. It is a comprehensive resource for anyone involved in cell preservation, including researchers, laboratory technicians, students, and professionals in the field of cell biology, stem cell biology, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.

Introduction to Cell Preservation

Cell preservation is a crucial process that involves the storage of cells for future use. This process requires careful planning and execution to ensure the integrity and viability of the cells. The book begins by introducing readers to the subject of preserving cells, covering the importance of cell preservation, the different methods available, and the challenges associated with it.

Pre-freeze Processing and Characterization

This section of the book focuses on the pre-freeze processing and characterization of cells. It covers the steps involved in preparing cells for freezing, including cell counting, viability assessment, and the removal of contaminants. The section also discusses the importance of characterizing cells before freezing to ensure that the cells are healthy and suitable for preservation.

Formulation and Introduction of Cryopreservation Solutions

This chapter delves into the formulation and introduction of cryopreservation solutions. It explains the different types of cryoprotectants available, their mechanisms of action, and how to select the appropriate cryoprotectant for a given cell type. The section also covers the methods for introducing cryopreservation solutions to the cells and the importance of controlling the rate of cooling to prevent cell damage.

Freezing Protocols

The book provides detailed freezing protocols for different types of cells, including slow freezing, rapid freezing, and vitrification. Each protocol is explained step-by-step, including the equipment needed, the cooling rates, and the storage conditions. The section also discusses the advantages and limitations of each protocol and how to troubleshoot common issues that may arise during the freezing process.

Storage and Shipping of Frozen Cells

This section covers the storage and shipping of frozen cells, including the different types of freezers available, how to store cells safely, and how to prepare cells for shipping. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the cells during storage and transportation and provides tips for ensuring cell viability.

Thawing and Post-thaw Processing

The book guides readers through the thawing and post-thaw processing of cells, including how to thaw cells safely, assess cell viability, and remove cryoprotectants. It also discusses the importance of post-thaw characterization to ensure that the cells are healthy and functional after thawing.

Post-thaw Assessment

This chapter focuses on the post-thaw assessment of cells, including the methods for evaluating cell viability, cell count, and cell function. It emphasizes the importance of assessing cell quality after thawing to ensure that the cells are suitable for use in various applications.

Algorithm-driven Protocol Optimization

The final section of the book discusses algorithm-driven protocol optimization, providing readers with the tools needed to develop or debug a preservation protocol for cells. It covers the principles behind protocol optimization, how to design an optimization algorithm, and how to validate the optimized protocol.

Conclusion

Preservation of Cells: A Comprehensive Guide is an essential resource for anyone involved in cell preservation. It provides a detailed understanding of the principles and practices of cell preservation, enabling readers to develop or improve their own preservation protocols. With its step-by-step approach and comprehensive coverage of the subject, this book is a valuable tool for researchers, laboratory technicians, students, and professionals in the field of cell biology, stem cell biology, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.