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Cell-cell contact affects membrane integrity after intracellular freezing.
1Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2R8, Canada.
Cryobiology
|February 19, 2000
Summary
Cellular response to freezing depends on membrane integrity. In tissues, cell-cell contact can prevent immediate plasma membrane damage from intracellular ice formation, aiding cryoprotection strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Cryobiology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Cell membrane integrity is crucial for survival during freezing.
- Rapid cooling can lead to intracellular ice formation (IIF), breaching the plasma membrane.
- Tissue structures, including cell-cell interactions, influence freezing responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of cell-cell contact on intracellular ice formation and membrane integrity.
- To compare freezing responses in suspended cells, individual attached cells, and cell monolayers.
- To explore strategies for minimizing cryoinjury in organized tissues.
Main Methods:
- Utilized three hamster fibroblast models simulating tissue structures.
- Employed a cryostage for controlled supercooling and ice nucleation.
- Applied dual fluorescent staining and SYTO dye for quantitative assessment of membrane integrity and IIF.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in IIF or membrane damage between suspended and individual attached cells.
- In cell monolayers with cell-cell contact, IIF did not cause immediate plasma membrane disruption in most cells.
- Demonstrated a temperature-dependent incidence of membrane damage and IIF.
Conclusions:
- Cell-cell interactions in monolayers mitigate immediate plasma membrane damage from IIF.
- Findings suggest potential for reducing cryoinjury in tissues.
- Highlights opportunities for developing advanced cryoprotection strategies for tissues.