liquid nitrogen storage - gas or liquid (Aug/03/2005 )

Hello,

I am wondering of whether it is recommended to store frozen cells in the liquid phase or gas phase of the liquid nitrogen. And why? and how much head space should be left in general? Is there any optimum amount?

Thank you

hi
there was a small discussion on this point here. No ones has the same protocol, but in vapors, the temperature is at least -170°, wich is sufficent for cryopreservation..

Hi,
storing cells in liquid nitrogen is more a safety issue. It has been reported that viurses and mycoplasma can survive and float in liquid nitrogen and thereby contaminate other stocks in the tank. Of course this can not occur in the vapour phase.
Good luck – CCS