Abstract

CABRERA, Pedro et al. Vitrification: An Embryo Cryopreservation Alternative. Rev. Fac. Cienc. Vet. [online]. 2006, vol.47, n.1, pp.9-23. ISSN 0258-6576.

The most commonly used cryopreservation technique for mammalian embryos is the standard cryopreservation method, which uses programmed equipments for freezing, that decrease temperature at a constant rate. However, implementation of more advanced techniques for cryopreservation, as  vitrification, rises as an alternative worldwide. Because of the importance that vitrification has reached since its beginning in 1985, this review focuses on basic aspects of the technique and details some factors that affect the whole process of embryo vitrification.

Keywords : Cattle; vitrification; animal embryos; biological preservation.