Standardized Cryopreservation of Stem Cells

Successful commercial and clinical application of stem cells requires robust and practical cryopreservation protocols. Stem cells, particularly human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, are notoriously sensitive to cryopreservation, requiring specialized protocols to maintain optimal cell viability and recovery. This chapter reviews the current state of stem cell cryopreservation and provides a clinically relevant, optimized method for controlled rate freezing and thawing of human stem cells that is reliable, inexpensive, and user friendly. This method successfully prepares stem cells for long-term cryogenic storage while ensuring maximal post-thaw cell viability.