Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is used as a cryopreservant for

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is used as a cryopreservant for mammalian cell cultures because

1. it is an organic solvent
2. it easily penetrates cells
3. it protects cells by preventing crystallization of water
4. it is also utilized as a nutrient

DMSO is used in cell freezing media to protect cells from ice crystal induced mechanical injury.