CryoCrate

CryoCrate is a biomedical company focused on revolutionizing cryopreservation in the life sciences. The company specializes in developing solutions for preserving cells and tissues that previously could not be maintained under medium and long-term storage conditions. CryoCrate's technology aims to address the limitations of traditional cryopreservation methods, which often result in loss of viability during the freeze-thaw process.

The company's flagship product line, C80EZ, includes various media designed for specific cell and tissue types. These products require the addition of 5% (v/v) DMSO before use and are tailored for mammalian cells, tissues, neurons, insect cells, and competent bacteria. CryoCrate's innovative approach eliminates the need for toxic and cell-permeating cryoprotectants, which pose medical and regulatory challenges.

CryoCrate has developed several proprietary technologies, including InstaVitria, IcyEye, and OdinSol. These technologies have applications in various fields, such as corneal preservation, skin banking, and transplantation. In September 2022, the company expanded into the immunotherapy market by enabling biocompatible cryopreservation of CAR-T and NK cells.

The company's research and development efforts have been supported by multiple National Institutes of Health (NIH) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards. These grants have funded projects ranging from corneal and bioartificial tissue cryopreservation to the development of novel systems for large skin grafts and stem cell preservation. CryoCrate has also received support for applications in agricultural cryopreservation, such as livestock embryos and semen preservation.

CryoCrate's technology has shown promising results in early tests. For instance, corneas cryopreserved using their method showed no statistical difference in the number and quality of cells determining cornea health and function compared to fresh cornea tissue. This level of efficiency in preserving corneal tissue has not been achieved before with traditional cryopreservation techniques.

Key customers and partnerships

CryoCrate has collaborated with the University of Missouri-Kansas City Vision Research Center on a USD 1.5 million NIH-funded project to explore a novel, ultra-fast cryopreservation technique. This partnership, established prior to October 2023, aims to address clinical needs in ophthalmology and other medical fields. The project involves extensive testing and refinement of the technology before clinical implementation. CryoCrate's technology is co-developed and co-owned with UMKC, protected by international patents and pending patents.