2026-03-25 東京大学
細胞・組織の高圧瞬間凍結－実験の概要－
＜関連情報＞
- https://www.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/press/pr2026-03-25-001
- https://academic.oup.com/pnasnexus/advance-article/doi/10.1093/pnasnexus/pgag065/8530391
凍結保存のための高圧凍結に関する概念実証研究 A proof-of-concept study on high pressure freezing for cryopreservation
Fang Song ,Mayuko Sato ,Yuya Toyama ,Taiyo Ishikawa ,Fumiya Tokito ,Takeshi Katsuda ,Kiminori Toyooka ,Yasuyuki Sakai ,Masaki Nishikawa
PNAS Nexus Published:20 March 2026
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1093/pnasnexus/pgag065
Abstract
Cryopreservation by vitrification typically requires 30–50 v/v% of cytotoxic penetrable cryoprotective agents (CPAs) to prevent ice crystal formation during freezing and thawing, limiting its broader application. Since pressure suppresses ice crystallization, applying high pressure during vitrification may enable reducing CPA concentrations while maintaining cell viability. In this study, we used a high pressure freezing (HPF) device, commonly used for cryofixation, to successfully cryopreserve 2D cell monolayers and 3D cell spheroids with 20–30 v/v% penetrable CPA. Compared to commonly used plunge freezing, HPF cell monolayers exhibited higher post-thaw viability and better retention on the substrate, allowing for subsequent proliferation. HPF cell spheroids showed improved cell viability, metabolic activity and maintained cell-cell adhesion. Developing HPF devices specifically for cryopreservation, in combination with advanced warming techniques, holds promise for achieving vitrification with low or even no CPA.
