Cryopreservation practices in clinical and preclinical iPSC-based cell therapies: Current challenges and future directions

Abstract

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer significant therapeutic potential, but cryopreservation challenges, particularly the reliance on cytotoxic Dimethyl Sulfoxide (Me2SO), hinder their clinical application. This review examines current cryopreservation practices in clinical and preclinical iPSC-based therapies, highlighting the consistent use of Me2SO and the logistical challenges of post-thaw processing. The findings underscore the urgent need for alternative cryopreservation techniques to ensure the safety and efficacy of off-the-shelf iPSC therapies.