Dry storage of mammalian spermatozoa and cells: state-of-the-art and possible future directions

This review provides a snapshot of the current state-of-the-art drying cells and spermatozoa. The major successes pitfalls most relevant literature are described separately for spermatozoa cells. Overall, data published so far indicate that we closer to success in spermatozoa, whereas situation is more complex with Critical presence xeroprotectants inside and, even so, protect subcellular compartments, primarily DNA. We highlight workable strategies endow gametes right combination xeroprotectants, mostly sugars, late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) or similar ‘intrinsically disordered’ proteins help them withstand reversible desiccation. focus on biological aspects water stress, particular cellular DNA damage, but also touch other still unexplored issues, such as choice both dehydration rehydration methods approaches, because, our view, they play primary role reducing desiccation damage. conclude by highlighting need exhaustively explore than lyophilisation, air drying, spin spray ideally new prototypes, food pharmaceutical currently used, tailored unique needs