Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 2, 2026
Kidney Procurement in a Preclinical Large Animal Model
Published on: May 2, 2025
Kidney preservation at subzero temperatures using a novel storage solution and insect ice-binding proteins
H E Tomalty1, E F Hamilton1, A Hamilton2
1Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
Background:
Contemporary kidney preservation methods involve storing at 4 degree C up to 24 h prior to transplantation. By decreasing the storage temperature to below 0 degree C, we hypothesized that the safe storage time could be significantly lengthened.
Objective:
The efficacy of a proprietary CryoStasis (CrS) storage solution for the subzero preservation of kidneys was tested, with or without addition of a hyperactive insect antifreeze protein (TmAFP).
Materials And Methods:
Rat kidneys were stored in either University of Wisconsin (UW) solution (4 degree C, 24 h), CrS (-2 degree C, 48 h), or CrS with 61.5 µM TmAFP (-4.4 degree C, 72 h). Following storage, viability was assessed with MTT reduction assays and live vs. dead cell (FDA/PI) staining. Markers of ischemic damage were analyzed using fluormetric substrates for caspase-3 and calpain activity.
Results:
Kidneys stored in CrS for 48 h and CrS with TmAFP for 72 h displayed similar levels of enzymatic activity compared to 24 h UW controls.
Conclusion:
This methodology shows promise to prolong the safe storage time of kidneys and offers the potential of increased organ availability for renal transplants.
