Cryopreservation (Wikipedia) has become a central technique in cell therapy, stem-cell research, and biobanking. When performed correctly, it allows cells and tissues to be stored at ultra-low temperatures for months or years without loss of viability or function. However, improper media composition or freezing conditions can destroy cell membranes, alter osmotic balance, and cause irreversible loss of function.

CryoStor® CS10, a 10% DMSO-based, serum-free cryopreservation medium, was developed specifically to address these issues. Its defined formulation minimizes variability and maximizes post-thaw recovery for sensitive cells such as primary cultures, stem cells, and therapeutic cell lines.

Researchers can find technical specifications and ordering details on both Maxanim’s CryoStor® CS10 product page

and the Cryopreservation Medium for Cell and Tissue Viability page.

When water inside and around cells freezes, ice crystals form, damaging membranes and organelles. Controlled cooling and the use of cryoprotectants such as DMSO prevent intracellular ice formation and reduce osmotic stress.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the optimal cryoprotectant concentration and cooling rate vary by cell type, but 10% DMSO remains the most validated standard for mammalian cells.

CryoStor® CS10 combines DMSO with an isotonic, pH-stabilized, protein-free base medium. Its balanced composition supports the osmotic equilibrium, maintains ion homeostasis, and minimizes “Cryopreservation-Induced Delayed-Onset Cell Death (CIDOD)” a phenomenon described in NIH-funded studies on cryogenic stress. (NIH.gov)

The function of CryoStor® CS10 is based on controlled osmotic modulation and membrane protection.

1. Penetration : DMSO enters the cytoplasm and lowers the freezing point, preventing intracellular ice formation.
2. Buffering : The medium maintains pH stability and ionic strength during cooling.
3. Osmotic Regulation : CryoStor® CS10 balances electrolyte fluxes across the cell membrane, avoiding volume expansion.
4. Post-Thaw Recovery : Upon thawing, the osmotic gradient reverses smoothly, ensuring high survival and full recovery of cellular metabolism.

Protocole

CryoStor® CS10 is widely used in :

1. Stem cell banking and iPSC cryostorage.
2. Immunotherapy R&D (CAR-T, TILs, DCs).
3. Primary cell isolation from human or animal tissue.
4. Hybridoma preservation for monoclonal antibody production.
5. Cell line shipment and quality control storage.

CryoStor® CS10 represents a modern standard in cryobiology, a ready-to-use, precisely formulated, serum-free freezing medium designed to safeguard cell integrity.

By incorporating it into laboratory workflows, researchers can expect improved post-thaw recovery, greater reproducibility, and enhanced compatibility with translational applications.

This defined cryomedium is a strong alternative to home-made solutions, aligning with FDA, NIH, and CDC recommendations for standardized, validated cryopreservation procedures.

For more details, visit:

🔗 CryoStor® CS10 on Maxanim

🔗 Cryopreservation Medium for Cell and Tissue Viability