Professor Allison Hubel

Trees survive Minnesota winters using combinations of molecules expressed naturally to stabilize critical biological structures. These researchers have employed these strategies to improve preservation of single cells. They are continuing these studies and using statistical models to understand the interactions between different solutes and develop rational methods to select the proper combination of molecules to stabilize cells. Multicellular systems (tissues, aggregates) typically have a poor response to freezing. The researchers are attempting to expand their project to include bio-inspired strategies to improve preservation of tissues. This work will involve looking at molecular pathways and other molecules to help stabilize these more complicated structures.