Cryogenic preservation is a technique used to store biological materials at extremely low temperatures, typically below -150 degrees Celsius. This process slows down molecular activity, effectively halting biological processes and preventing decay. It is commonly used for preserving cells, tissues, and even whole organisms, such as in the case of human embryos or sperm.
The primary goal of cryogenic preservation is to maintain the viability of the preserved materials for future use. This method is essential in fields like medicine, biotechnology, and conservation, allowing scientists to study or utilize these materials long after they have been collected.