Preserving Cell Functionality: Cryopreservation vs. Hypothermic Hydrogel Technology

Preserving Cell Functionality: Cryopreservation vs. Hypothermic Hydrogel Technology

By Rachel Sanders

Preserving cell functionality during storage and transportation is challenging for cell-based therapies as cryopreservation methods can compromise cell viability and functionality. Atelerix's hypothermic hydrogel technology offers a revolutionary alternative, addressing many of the issues associated with cryopreservation.  

The Challenges of Cryopreservation 

Cryopreservation involves storing cells at ultra-low temperatures, typically using liquid nitrogen (-196°C) or ultra-low temperature freezers (-80°C). While effective in halting cellular metabolism, this presents several challenges: 

1.Cell Viability: Freeze-thaw cycles can cause ice crystal formation, leading to cell membrane damage and reduced viability ~50% post-thaw. 

2. Functionality: Cryopreservation can alter cell phenotype and function, impacting the efficacy of cell-based therapies. 

3. Logistical Complexity: Maintaining the cold chain during transport is expensive and prone to failures, requiring specialised equipment and handling. 

4. Time Constraints: Cells must be used within a narrow window post-thaw, complicating clinical scheduling. 

 

Hypothermic Hydrogel Technology 

Atelerix's hypothermic hydrogel technology encapsulates cells in an alginate gel, allowing for storage and transport at ambient temperatures (4°C - 25°C), addressing the key challenges of cryopreservation: 

 

 

Cryopreservation 

Hypothermic hydrogel 

Process Example 

T cells for CAR-T therapy are cryopreserved using DMSO, then stored in liquid nitrogen. 

T cells are encapsulated in Atelerix's hydrogel and stored at room temperature. 

 

Outcome 

Post-thaw viability is around 70-80%, with potential functional changes observed. 

Viability remains above 90% after 7 days, with minimal alterations in phenotype and function. 

Requirements 

Specialised cryogenic shipping containers, dry ice replenishment for long-distance transport, and adherence to hazardous material regulations. 

Standard insulated packaging and regular shipping services. 

 

Cost 

High shipping costs due to the need for expedited services and specialised packaging. 

Significantly reduced shipping costs, with savings of up to 50-80% per shipment. 

 

Extending the Therapeutic Window 
  • Constraint: Cells must be used within hours of thawing, requiring strict scheduling for patient treatment. 
  • Risk: Any delays can compromise cell viability and treatment efficacy. 

 
  • Flexibility: Cells remain viable for days at room temperature, allowing for more flexible scheduling. 
  • Benefit: Hospitals can better manage operating theatre schedules and patient appointments, reducing the risk of rescheduling and improving overall efficiency. 

 

 

Impacts:  

1. Higher cell viability and maintained functionality translate to more effective treatments and potentially lower production costs, as fewer cells need to be harvested and processed initially. 

2. Simplified logistics reduce the risk of shipping delays and failures, making it easier to coordinate multi-centre clinical trials and international collaborations. 

3. Extended viability at room temperature enhances the flexibility and reliability of cell-based therapies, improving patient care and resource utilisation. 

 

Case Study: Enhancing Stem Cell Therapy Delivery 

Consider you’re overseeing a clinical trial for mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy:  

Cryopreservation Workflow: 

 

  

Hypothermic Hydrogel Workflow: 

 

  

Benefits: 

  • Reduced Costs: Lower shipping and storage costs. 
  • Improved Viability: Higher cell viability and functionality. 
  • Operational Flexibility: Easier scheduling and reduced risk of delays. 

 

Atelerix Benefits

Regulatory Considerations 

The adoption of hypothermic hydrogel technology is supported by regulatory bodies recognising the need for innovative preservation methods. The FDA has issued guidance on novel cell preservation technologies, paving the way for broader adoption in clinical settings. 

 

Conclusion 

Atelerix's hypothermic hydrogel technology offers a transformative solution to the challenges of cell preservation and transportation; by maintaining cell viability and functionality, simplifying logistics, and extending the therapeutic window. As cell-based therapies continues to grow, embracing such advancements will be crucial in maximising the efficiency and impact of research and clinical applications. 

 

Want to improve the shelf life of your cells? 

Revolutionise your cell preservation approach with Atelerix tailored solutions for a range of cell types and research applications. Contact us to request a sample kit or schedule a consultation with our experts. Discover how our hypothermic hydrogel technology can streamline your workflows and improve research outcomes.  

Book a meeting with Sarah Farrow, Sales Manager

 

 

References: 

  1. Atelerix. (n.d.). Fresh Sample Shelf Life AMPLIFIED! Retrieved from https://www.atelerix.co.uk 
  1. Atelerix. (n.d.). About Us - Atelerix - Cell Preservation Technology Products. Retrieved from https://www.atelerix.co.uk/pages/about-us 
  1. Atelerix Awarded Innovate UK Funding to Enable Transport and Storage of Cellular Therapies at Room Temperature. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.labmanager.com/atelerix-awarded-innovate-uk-funding-to-enable-transport-and-storage-of-cellular-therapies-at-room-temperature-23921 

 

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