Course Dates:
May 18-20, 2009
Brochure (pdf)

Check back in January 2009 for online registration!

Introduction
The growth in our understanding of cell culture and cell manipulation has fueled the development of cell and tissue based therapies and reproductive technologies. The ability to preserve mammalian cells and gametes is essential to the commercial and clinical application of these technologies. Specifically, preservation of cells can permit completion of safety and quality control testing, transportation of the product to the site of use and coordination of the product manufacturing process with need.

This course is designed to present an overview of the scientific basis for the field of preservation by experts in the field. Participants in the course will be introduced to the fundamentals of preservation, case studies in protocol development, repository design, documentation and validation of preservation protocols and regulatory issues. The course also offers several lectures on emerging issues in cell and tissue preservation such as the development of new cryoprotective agents or the unique challenges involved in preserving engineered tissues as well as the emerging field of biostabilization. More details on lecture content can be found on the ‘schedule’ link of this page.

Audience
Now in its fifth year, participants for this course have come from several countries spanning three continents. Attendees of the course have come from academia, clinical cell processing/laboratory facilities, industries and biological repositories. For those participants new to cell preservation, the course is an important overview to fundamentals of preservation and an efficient introduction to critical issues in preservation protocol development. For those experienced in cell preservation, this course describes emerging technologies.

Format
Topics are presented through lectures accompanied by an extensive set of course notes and a CD-ROM. Course lectures are supplemented with discussion sessions, case studies on protocol development and practical demonstrations.

Offerings
This course is offered annually in Minneapolis. This course was offered in Singapore in Fall 2006. The course is also suitable for presentation on-site for organizations as an internal professional training course.

Participant comments: “The knowledge behind the theory of cryopreservation and the basic science of freezing has been monumental in helping me have a better understanding and appreciation for what I currently do and where I hope to improve on current processes.” “I have already highly recommended it to several colleagues of mine. Everyone who presented was incredibly knowledgeable and able to present their knowledge in a way the regardless of your current background could be understood or applied. WOW” “The course was very informative (as a review and for new applications).”