What is cryopreservation?

Cryopreservation is the process of freezing cells or tissues to maintain their viability. This method is utilized to preserve biological samples at very low temperatures, usually in liquid nitrogen. By cooling the cells or tissues to sub-zero temperatures, metabolic and cellular processes are halted, which significantly reduces the risk of damage that can occur over time from cellular activity.

This technique is essential in various fields, including transplantation, reproductive medicine, and research, because it allows for the long-term storage of biological materials without losing their functional integrity. The process ensures that when the cells or tissues are thawed, they retain their structural and functional properties, making it possible to use them in future medical applications or studies.

The focus on freezing as a preservation method is crucial, as opposed to the methods implied by the other options, which do not accurately represent the objectives or processes involved in cryopreservation.