Biochemical and ultrastructural examination of cryopreserved hepatocytes in rat

We investigated the ultrastructure and metabolic capabilities of isolated rat hepatocytes after cryopreservation using 1.5 M Me₂SO as protectant and a slow cool/fast thaw regime. Ultrastructural assessment of the cryopreserved population revealed only approximately 10% of cells with normal morphology. Conjugation of bilirubin by the cryopreserved cells was reduced to 20% of that seen in unfrozen hepatocytes and there was a net loss of glycogen measured in cryopreserved cells incubated in conditions which stimulated glycogen synthesis by unfrozen cells. These results are in contrast to other reports in which cryopreserved hepatocytes have been successfully used for transplantation to reverse hepatic insufficiency.