[Effectiveness of the cryoprotective effect of glycerol and polyethylene glycol on plasma membranes].

The barrier properties of erythrocyte membranes were studied under freezing-thawing in cryopreservatives based on glycerol or polyethylene glycol Mm 1500 Da (PEG-1500) (at cryoprotectant concentrations from 0.5 to 30%). The state of the membrane barrier function in reconstituted and native erythrocytes subjected to rapid (200-400 degrees C per min) freezing has been registered by spectrophotometry, flame photometry, and radiolabel analysis as judged by labeled compound release (hemoglobin, K+, [14C]sucrose, 86Rb+). It is demonstrated that the effective cryoprotection of erythrocyte membranes in reconstituted erythrocytes is attained at cryoprotectant concentrations in the medium of 0.5-1% or in erythrocytes of 8-30%.