PEG Preservation Solution for Stem Cell Cryostability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stem cell preservation methods, particularly in cryopreservation, suffer from decreased cell viability over time and are susceptible to contamination, with current solutions failing to maintain high cell stability and functionality during transportation and storage.
Innovation Solution
An aqueous solution comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG) with a molecular weight of about 35000 Da is used as an extracellular agent, optionally with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for cryopreservation, to enhance stem cell preservation and viability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If hypothermic storage (0-5°C) is used for stem cell preservation, then cell viability is maintained in short term, but storage duration is limited and long term preservation requires freezing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the storage solution by incorporating specific concentrations of DMSO (5-20%), PEG 35kDa (0.01-5 mmol/l), and other protective agents. This chemical parameter modification enables the solution to protect cells during both hypothermic and cryopreservation conditions, extending storage duration without compromising cell viability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite preservation solution containing multiple protective agents working synergistically: DMSO as cryoprotectant, PEG 35kDa for membrane stabilization, human serum albumin for protein protection, and various buffers and nutrients. This composite formulation addresses both short-term hypothermic and long-term cryopreservation needs simultaneously.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If cryopreservation with DMSO is used for long term storage, then storage duration is extended, but cell death from intracellular ice formation and chemo-osmotic stress increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces PEG 35kDa as an intermediary substance that mediates between the cryoprotectant DMSO and the cell membrane. PEG stabilizes membranes during freezing stress and reduces chemo-osmotic shock, thereby protecting cells from ice formation damage while maintaining the cryopreservation capability for long-term storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies multiple protective agents beforehand to cushion cells against freezing damage. The combination of DMSO, PEG, albumin, and other agents creates a protective environment that prevents intracellular ice formation and reduces chemo-osmotic stress before freezing occurs, thereby reducing cell death during cryopreservation.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional preservation solutions are used, then manufacturing cost is controlled, but cell stability and functionality during transportation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the concentration parameters of each component to achieve the right balance between cell protection and cost. By carefully selecting concentrations (e.g., DMSO 5-20%, PEG 0.01-5 mmol/l, albumin 1-10%), the formulation achieves high cell stability during transportation while controlling manufacturing costs through efficient use of expensive protective agents.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution maintains high stem cell viability and functionality, allowing broader temperature ranges during transportation and prolonged storage, making cells more resistant to varying conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an aqueous solution comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG) having a molecular weight about 35000 Da as an extracellular agent for preserving stem cells
Implementation Method 2
it is necessary to freeze the preserved materials in temperature range between their freezing temperature and temperature of liquid nitrogen (−196° C.)
Implementation Method 3
Cryoprotectants, for examples dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), are used for that purpose. In order to eliminate the cell death caused by freezing mainly due to the intracellular ice formation and chemo-osmotic stress
Implementation Method 4
Cells immersed in such solutions in temperature of 4° C. remain in a state called sustained hypothermia
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a field of stem cell preservation and in particular to use of an aqueous solution comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG) having a molecular weight about 35000 Da as an extracellular agent for preserving stem cells.