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Factors Affecting the Membrane Permeability Barrier Function of Cells during Preservation Technologies
Willem F Wolkers1, Harriëtte Oldenhof2, Fengrui Tang1
1Institute of Multiphase Processes , Leibniz Universität Hannover , Callinstrasse 36 , Hannover 30167 , Germany.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|December 4, 2018
Summary
Cellular membranes face significant stress during cryopreservation, altering their permeability to water and solutes. Freezing dramatically impacts membrane function, causing temporary leaks and affecting barrier properties.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
- Cryobiology
Background:
- Cellular membranes are crucial for cell viability.
- Cryopreservation involves extreme conditions that challenge membrane integrity.
- Protective agents are used but can induce membrane changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how cryopreservation affects cellular membrane permeability.
- To understand the factors influencing water and solute transport across membranes during freezing.
- To elucidate the impact of freezing on membrane structure and barrier function.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cellular membrane responses to protective agents.
- Investigating osmotic and mechanical stresses during freezing.
- Examining temperature, osmolality, and ice formation effects on membrane permeability.
- Assessing changes in activation energy for water transport.
Main Results:
- Membrane permeability depends on temperature, osmolality, solutes, hydration, and ice.
- Freezing significantly alters membrane permeability and barrier function.
- Fluid-to-gel phase transitions during freezing cause temporary membrane leakiness.
Conclusions:
- Cryopreservation processing severely impacts cellular membrane permeability.
- Understanding these changes is vital for improving cell preservation techniques.
- Membrane phase transitions during freezing are a key factor in solute uptake.
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