Cryopreservation allows scientists to freeze transplant organs at extremely low temperatures. For years, researchers have explored its use in transplant medicine. A major step came in 2023, when scientists at the University of Minnesota transplanted a cryopreserved kidney into a rat. The result showed that frozen organs could one day be used in human care.
Cracking remains a critical barrier
Despite progress, one major problem has limited the field. Organs can crack during freezing. When tissues cool too quickly, internal stress builds up. This can lead to fractures that damage the structure of the organ. In many cases, the organ cannot be used for transplant.
New approach focuses on controlled cooling
Researchers at Texas A&M University are working on a solution. A team led by Dr. Matthew Powell-Palm has developed a method to better control how organs cool. By managing temperature changes more carefully, the approach aims to reduce internal stress and prevent cracking.
Vitrification and solution design play key roles
The research focuses on vitrification, a process that cools tissue into a glass-like state. This method avoids ice crystal formation, which can harm cells. However, the composition of the solution used in vitrification is critical.
Researchers studied how the “glass transition temperature” affects outcomes. This is the point where the solution becomes solid and glass-like. The team found that higher glass transition temperatures reduce the risk of cracking.
Researchers have developed a new way to freeze transplant organs without cracking.
By controlling cooling and adjusting solution properties, they reduced structural damage — a major barrier in cryopreservation. pic.twitter.com/DCLmTqdWOt
— Tom Marvolo Riddle (@tom_riddle2025) April 28, 2026
“In this study, we investigated different glass transition temperatures, which we believe play a dominant role in cracking,” Powell-Palm said. “We learned that higher glass transition temperatures reduce the likelihood of cracking.”
Balancing protection and biocompatibility
The findings suggest that adjusting the solution could make cryopreservation safer. However, preventing cracks alone is not enough. The solution must also be safe for living tissue.
“Cracking is only one part of the problem,” Powell-Palm said. “The solutions need to be biocompatible with the tissue as well.”
Broader impact beyond transplants
Improved cryopreservation could affect more than transplant medicine. Better storage methods may help preserve endangered species, extend vaccine shelf life, and reduce food waste. The ability to keep biological material viable for longer could support research and healthcare worldwide.
Dr. Guillermo Aguilar, head of the Mechanical Engineering Department at Texas A&M, said the study advances understanding in the field.
“This study offers a seminal contribution to our understanding of aqueous solution thermodynamics,” Aguilar said. Further progress in this area could improve the viability of biological systems at every level, from single cells to entire organs.
Team effort and funding support
The research involved a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists. It received support from the National Science Foundation, which funds advanced work in cryopreservation.
Researchers say continued collaboration will be key to turning these findings into real-world medical solutions.
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