Award
NIH Reporter #2R44GM156169-02
Improving cryopreservation outcomes of small biological samples through ultra-fast convective cooling and warming
Recipient
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Award Amount
$999,741.00
Ceiling
$999,741.00
Awarded
August 14, 2026
Identifier
2R44GM156169-02
Award to develop and validate advanced cryopreservation technology for small biological samples using ultra-fast convective cooling and warming, enhancing reproducibility and throughput.
Description
This project aims to develop and validate cryopreservation technology that automates soaking, cooling, and warming; increases convective cooling and warming rates for small samples; eliminates ice formation; reduces cryoprotectant concentrations; and improves reproducibility and throughput. The work involves a highly flexible robot-based platform, ultra-low thermal mass supports, and automated measurement systems. Validation will be conducted through studies of bovine, porcine, and Drosophila embryos, tissue slices, and placement of prototypes at biobanking centers.