Molecular mechanisms of natural antifreeze phenomena and their application in cryopreservation.

ABSTRACT

Cryopreservation presents a critical challenge due to cryo-damage, such as crystallization and osmotic imbalances that compromise the integrity of biological tissues and cells. In contrast, various organisms in nature exhibit remarkable freezing tolerance, leveraging complex molecular mechanisms to survive extreme cold. This review explores the adaptive strategies of freeze-tolerant species, including the regulation of specific genes, proteins, and metabolic pathways, to enhance survival in low-temperature environments. We then discuss recent advancements in cryopreservation technologies that aim to mimic these natural phenomena to preserve cellular and tissue integrity. Special focus is given to the roles of glucose metabolism, microRNA expression, and cryoprotective protein modulation in improving cryopreservation outcomes. The insights gained from studying natural antifreeze mechanisms offer promising directions for advancing cryopreservation techniques, with potential applications in medical, agricultural, and conservation fields. Future research should aim to further elucidate these molecular mechanisms to develop more effective and reliable cryopreservation methods.