Cryopreservation of Embryos and Gametes: Past, Present, and Future

Abstract

The need to find an efficient method to store gametes and embryos was driven both by medical and agricultural necessities. Gametes were the first cells used in early attempts of cryopreservation, yet these proved to be the most elusive. This chapter details the story of the development of techniques for gamete and embryo freezing, starting with hot air balloons and ending with cryotop open vitrification systems. Since gametes were the first cells to be frozen and the last to successfully thaw, their story provides an overview of the development of the science of cryopreservation.