Peptide-DNA origami as a cryoprotectant for cell preservation

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Materials Science
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Cell cryopreservation is vital for bioproducts and cell-based medicines.
• Current cryoprotective agents have limitations in cell survival rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate DNA origami nanostructures as novel cryoprotectant agents.
• To evaluate the efficacy of peptide-functionalized DNA nanostructures in protecting cells during cryopreservation.

Main Methods:

• Self-assembled DNA origami nanostructures were designed and functionalized with antifreezing threonine peptides.
• HSC-3 cells were cryopreserved using the DNA nanostructures and compared to dimethyl sulfoxide.
• Cell viability was assessed after 1 month of cryopreservation.

Main Results:

• Peptide-functionalized DNA origami nanopatches significantly enhanced HSC-3 cell viability (56%) compared to dimethyl sulfoxide (38%) after cryopreservation.
• The DNA nanostructures demonstrated minimal dependence on cryopreservation duration and freezing conditions.
• Multisite ice growth retardation and cell membrane protection were observed.

Conclusions:

• DNA origami nanostructures serve as effective cryoprotectant agents.
• This technology offers a promising alternative to conventional cryoprotectants for cell preservation.
• The findings advance the understanding of cell survival mechanisms in freezing environments.