This research integrates principles from physical chemistry, glass physics, thermomechanics, and cryobiology, showcasing the interdisciplinary effort behind advancing cryopreservation technology.

Researchers have achieved a major breakthrough in cryopreservation by developing methods to prevent organ cracking during freezing, a critical step for improving organ transplants and biological preservation.

Beyond organ transplants, these advancements have broader implications for wildlife conservation, vaccine stabilization, and reducing food waste by enabling longer, safer storage of biological materials.

Led by Dr. Matthew Powell-Palm and published in Scientific Reports, the study demonstrates that higher glass transition temperatures help maintain biocompatibility while preventing cracks.

The project involved collaboration between students and faculty from Texas A&M University’s mechanical engineering department, emphasizing its educational value.

Vitrification, a cryopreservation technique that stores biological tissues in an ice-free, glassy state, is essential for extending the viability of organs and other biological samples.

A key discovery involves increasing the glass transition temperature of vitrification solutions, which significantly reduces thermal stress and prevents cracks in preserved organs.