A Historical Overview of Cryology: Evolution of Cryoprotectants from Glycerol to Modern Alternatives

Cryology, the study of low-temperature biological preservation, has evolved significantly since the discovery of glycerol’s cryoprotective properties in the mid-20th century. This paper provides a chronological overview of major milestones in cryology, beginning with glycerol’s introduction in the 1940s for sperm cryopreservation, followed by the emergence of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in the 1960s, and subsequent developments in ice blockers, polymers, and nanomaterials. The article highlights the challenges of cryoprotectant toxicity, the search for safer alternatives, and the role of nanotechnology in future preservation techniques. By tracing historical progress, this paper offers insight into both the scientific advancements and the ongoing challenges in cryobiology.