Is isochoric vitrification feasible? Cycling between modeling, experimental observations, and first principles.

Area of Science:

• Cryobiology
• Biophysics
• Biopreservation

Background:

• Isochoric cryopreservation aims to enhance biological material preservation using constant-volume chambers, leveraging pressure effects from ice formation.
• Vitrification, an established ice-free cryopreservation method, was later integrated with the isochoric approach, leading to the term 'isochoric vitrification'.
• This integration presents a conceptual contradiction regarding ice formation, a key aspect of both techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the apparent contradiction in the concept of isochoric vitrification.
• To share skepticism regarding recent experimental claims asserting the feasibility of isochoric vitrification.
• To stimulate discussion within the cryobiology community about the validity of isochoric vitrification.

Main Methods:

• Review and critique of existing modeling results on isochoric cryopreservation and vitrification.
• Analysis of recent experimental findings published by Ali et al. (Cryobiology 2024).
• Theoretical assessment of the compatibility between isochoric conditions and vitrification processes.

Main Results:

• Previous modeling studies indicated a fundamental contradiction in combining isochoric conditions with vitrification.
• Recent experimental claims of successful isochoric vitrification are questioned.
• The feasibility of achieving true vitrification under isochoric conditions remains doubtful.

Conclusions:

• The concept of isochoric vitrification appears contradictory due to the opposing roles of ice formation in each technique.
• Further rigorous investigation and theoretical validation are necessary to reconcile the claims of isochoric vitrification feasibility.
• The cryobiology field should critically evaluate the scientific basis of isochoric vitrification.