Cryoprotective Mechanism of DMSO Induced by the Inhibitory Effect on Eutectic NaCl Crystallization.

Cryopreservation is a critical procedure in autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is the cryoprotectant of choice. Optimization of the cryopreservation protocol in the past revealed a dramatic loss of cell viability associated with a reduction of the DMSO concentration below 2 vol % in the freezing medium. The cryoprotective mechanism of DMSO is usually ascribed to the ability to suppress ice formation and reduce the adverse effects of the freeze-concentrated solution. This work proposes an alternative hypothesis considering the detrimental impact of NaCl eutectic crystallization on cell viability. Thermoanalytical and microstructural analysis of the DMSO effect on eutectic phase transformation of cryoprotective mixtures revealed a correlation between the loss of cell viability and eutectic NaCl crystallization. DMSO inhibits the eutectic crystallization of NaCl and preserves cell viability. Thermodynamic description of the inhibitory action and possible mechanism of cryoinjury are provided.