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redosabe t1_ix92s3j wrote

I thought freezing destroys/bursts cell membranes? is this freezing done differently? or does freezing embryos not damage them?

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genericdude999 OP t1_ix93gi8 wrote

Human embryos are pretty much tardigrades: Boil 'em, mash 'em, stick 'em in a stew. Should be fine.
¯\(ツ)/¯

source: /r/askashittydoctor

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redosabe t1_ix94ihm wrote

interesting... thanks!

time to look up "wWhat are "tardigrades?" ..

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tarrox1992 t1_ix97bzs wrote

It’s the speed of freezing that causes ice crystals to form that burst open cells. Single cells are a lot easier to freeze because they can be frozen slowly, which discourages ice crystal formation. Large tissues would need to be frozen quickly for theoretical hibernation/storing, because if only half your heart is frozen, then there are going to be problems. The rapid freezing is mostly what causes ice crystals and cellular damage.

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