The Use of Antifreeze Proteins in the Cryopreservation of Gametes and Embryos

作者：Vanesa Robles, David G. Valcarce, Marta F. Riesco · 发表于：Biomolecules · 年份：2019 · DOI：10.3390/biom9050181 · 被引用次数：97 · 研究领域：Physiological and biochemical adaptations、Reproductive Biology and Fertility、nanoparticles nucleation surface interactions

The cryopreservation of gametes and embryos is a technique widely used in reproductive biology. This technology helps in the reproductive management of domesticated animals, and it is an important tool for gene banking and for human-assisted reproductive technologies. Antifreeze proteins are naturally present in several organisms exposed to subzero temperatures. The ability for these proteins to inhibit ice recrystallization together with their ability to interact with biological membranes makes them interesting molecules to be used in cryopreservation protocols. This mini-review provides a general overview about the use of antifreeze proteins to improve the short and long term storage of gametes and embryos.