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Review
. 2022 Nov-Dec;24(6):563-569.
doi: 10.4103/aja20229.

Update on techniques for cryopreservation of human spermatozoa

Chuan Huang  1   2 , Yu-Lin Tang  1 , Jian-Ling Hu  3 , Wen-Jun Zhou  1 , Zeng-Hui Huang  1   2 , Xue-Feng Luo  1 , Zheng Li  3 , Wen-Bing Zhu  1   2
Affiliations
Review

Update on techniques for cryopreservation of human spermatozoa

Chuan Huang et al. Asian J Androl. 2022 Nov-Dec.

Abstract

In the 1960s, sperm cryopreservation was developed as a method to preserve fertility. Currently, techniques for the cryopreservation of human spermatozoa have been widely used in assisted reproduction. However, although sperm cryobiology has made notable achievements, the optimal method for the recovery of viable spermatozoa after cryopreservation remains elusive. Postthawing sperm quality can be affected by cryoprotectants, ice formation, storage conditions, and osmotic stress during the freezing process. This review discusses recent advances in different cryopreservation techniques, cryoprotectants, and freezing and thawing methods during cryopreservation and new indications for the use of cryopreserved spermatozoa.

Keywords: cryodamage; cryoprotectant; dry preservation; freezing and thawing; sperm cryopreservation.

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Conflict of interest statement

None

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Different sperm vitrification devices developed since 1997.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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