Vitrification provides many advantages over slow cooling cryopreservation methods, but requires the use of expensive, specialized tools. Investigators at Nationwide Children's Hospital have invented a vitrification insert device that can be manufactured with inexpensive, sterilization-durable material and fit securely into multiple cryovial models. Further, this cost-effective solution can include various end designs to suit many functions, such as preventing sample contact with cryovial walls.

The device provides a method to transform a standard cryovial into a simple vitrification and cryostorage device. Initial prototypes have been machined from polycarbonate but larger scale production would presumably use other cryosafe plastics or materials.

To use the device it is firstly inserted into the lid of a cryopreservation tube or vial. The device is a slip fit and can be manufactured to accommodate any standard internal thread cryovial.

Once the device is inserted into the lid the sample prepared for the cryopreservation process is inserted into liquid nitrogen. Once equilibrated after typically a few seconds the lid with the inserted device and sample are screwed into the cryovial tube.

Device to improve existing process of vitrification
1. Simple transformation of a cryovial into a vitrification device
2. Reproducible device
3. Re-usable
4. Lower material and production costs
5. Amenable to different spatula or sample carrying designs
6. Facilitates less exposure of sample to cryoprotectant chemicals