Terminology associated with vitrification and other cryopreservation procedures for oocytes and embryos

Authors: Shaw, J.M.; Jones, G.M.

Source: Human Reproduction Update, Volume 9, Number 6, December 2003 , pp. 583-605(23)

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $42.29 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

Over the past 30 years many cryopreservation procedures have been applied to oocytes, embryos, sperm, ovarian and testicular tissue. Over this time many, often specialized, terms have been developed for all aspects of these procedures. This can make it difficult for readers who are not familiar with the terminology or protocols to compare and evaluate different procedures. This paper describes the main cryopreservation procedures, the terminology associated with them, and briefly explains the underlying physical, chemical and biological processes. The aim is to help readers understand and interpret other papers on slow cooling, rapid cooling, ultrarapid cooling and vitrification.

Keywords: cooling; cryopreservation; embryos; oocytes; vitrification

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2003-12-01

More about this publication?

Human Reproduction Update, first published in 1995, aims to provide invited, comprehensive, authoritative, up-to-date critical and balanced reviews covering all areas of human reproduction including reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology and counselling, ethics and social issues. These papers are peer-reviewed to the highest editorial and scientific standards. Human Reproduction Update is published on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE).