**Cryopreservation of Human Gametes and Embryos: Current State and Future Perspectives Provisional chapterCryopreservation of Human Gametes and Embryos: Current State and Future Perspectives**

Jeseta Michal, Zakova Jana, Ventruba Pavel, Bartosz Kempisty and Crha Igor Jeseta Michal, Zakova Jana, Ventruba Pavel, Bartosz Kempisty and Crha Igor

Additional information is available at the end of the chapter Additional information is available at the end of the chapter

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/64950

#### **Abstract**

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164 Cryopreservation in Eukaryotes

Cryopreservation of human gametes and embryos is an important and widely used method in most embryology laboratories. During last years, the practice of single embryo transfer was a greater demand for reliable cryostorage of surplus embryos. Currently, there are two basic principally different methods usable for cryopreservation: slow freezing and vitrification. Vitrification is a very promising method with massive use in embryology. Nowadays, this method is also suitable for cryopreservation of human mature oocytes (one of the most problematic cell in cryobiology). This progress in the field of cryopreservation opens new perspectives in assisted reproduction. Recent effective oocyte vitrification systems have a significant impact on clinical practice. This chapter gives a view of human gametes (sperms, oocytes) and embryos cryopreserva‐ tion application and possibilities. Indications and methods of cryopreservation and thawing are mentioned.

**Keywords:** gamete, oocyte, spermatozoa, embryo, cryopreservation, assisted repro‐ duction, vitrification
