Cryopreservation Media: Revolutionizing Fertility Preservation

Cryopreservation media are critical to preserving biological samples such as gametes, embryos, and tissues, ensuring their viability for future use.

Origins of Cryopreservation Media

Cryopreservation as a concept was first developed in the mid-20th century. The use of cryoprotective agents (CPAs) in modern cryopreservation was pioneered by Polge, Smith, and Parkes in 1949, who discovered glycerol’s protective effect on sperm cells during freezing. This breakthrough laid the foundation for the development of specialized cryopreservation media.

Types of Cryopreservation Media

1. Sperm Cryopreservation Media : Designed to preserve sperm cells for fertility treatments and research.

2. Oocyte Cryopreservation Media : Optimized for safeguarding the viability of female gametes.

3. Embryo Cryopreservation Media : Used for vitrification and slow freezing of embryos.

4. Tissue Cryopreservation Media : Formulated for the preservation of ovarian and testicular tissues.

Main Components of Cryopreservation Media

Cryopreservation media are carefully formulated with the following components :

• Cryoprotective Agents (CPAs) : Chemicals like dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), glycerol, and ethylene glycol prevent ice crystal formation.

• Buffers : Maintain pH stability during freezing and thawing.

• Sugars : Trehalose or sucrose to protect cellular membranes.

• Proteins : Albumin or synthetic substitutes to reduce osmotic shock.

• Antioxidants : Minimize oxidative stress during the process.

Phases of Use in ART Procedures

Cryopreservation media are utilized at various stages in ART :

1. Collection Phase : Samples (sperm, oocytes, or embryos) are prepared and transferred to the cryopreservation medium.

2. Freezing Phase : Slow freezing or vitrification is performed to achieve ultra-low temperatures.

3. Thawing Phase : Samples are thawed carefully using warming solutions and rehydration steps.

4. Post-Thaw Phase : Viability assessments and preparation for subsequent procedures like fertilization or implantation.

Market Leaders in Cryopreservation Media

Several companies dominate the cryopreservation media market:

• Vitrolife: Renowned for products like Rapid-i™ Vitrification System.

• Cook Medical: Offers solutions such as VitriFreeze™ for oocyte and embryo vitrification.

• Irvine Scientific: Known for CryoSuite™ media range.

• Fujifilm Irvine Scientific: Provides comprehensive cryopreservation solutions.

• CooperSurgical: Supplies Sage™ cryopreservation media.

Market Share Trends

• India: Cryopreservation media is gaining traction, driven by rising awareness of fertility preservation. India’s market share is approximately 10-15% of the global market, with a growing CAGR due to advancements in ART clinics.

• Worldwide: The global cryopreservation media market is valued at over $4 billion, with North America and Europe holding dominant shares due to established ART infrastructure and research facilities.

Cryopreservation media is a linchpin in fertility preservation and assisted reproduction. With continuous advancements in formulations and technologies, these media ensure higher success rates and improved outcomes in ART. By supporting gametes, embryos, and tissues through freezing and thawing, cryopreservation media expand the horizons of reproductive medicine and offer hope to countless individuals and families worldwide.