Nanocrystalline cerium dioxide reduces recrystallization in cryopreservation solutions

Nanocrystalline cerium dioxide is able to protect living cells from oxidative stress under the influence of various stress factors, in particular under the one of low temperatures. This study investigates the phase-structural transformations in aqueous solutions containing CeO2 nanoparticles (NPs) and their impact on the cryopreservation process. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermomechanical analysis were used to analyse the phase transitions in aqueous suspensions of CeO2 NPs and aqueous solutions of the cryoprotectant dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO) with CeO2 NPs. Various concentrations of CeO2 NPs were tested to observe their effects on the crystallization and melting behaviours. The addition of CeO2 NPs significantly altered the temperatures and enthalpies of melting and crystallization in water. Low concentrations of CeO2 NPs promoted crystallization, while higher concentrations inhibited it, reducing supercooling and recrystallization during thawing. In Me2SO solutions, CeO2 NPs raised the glass transition temperature and affected the recrystallization process, with higher concentrations leading to more pronounced vitrification and reduced recrystallization. We also investigated the regularities of the effect of CeO2 NPs on phase transitions in combined cryoprotective media with Ham's F12, fetal bovine serum and Me2SO, which can be used in future to design the cryopreservation protocols. In the complex media, CeO2 NPs decreased the metastability and altered eutectic crystallization patterns, indicating potential cryoprotective effects. In conclusion, CeO2 NPs modulate the thermophysical properties of cryoprotective solutions, enhancing vitrification and reducing recrystallization, which could improve cryopreservation efficiency. Optimizing NP concentrations is crucial for practical applications in cryopreservation.