Animal component-free cryopreservation medium for research and GMP workflows
The thaw-freeze cycle is one of the most critical steps in many cell culture workflows. During cryopreservation, freezing and thawing can compromise cell integrity, viability, and post-thaw recovery. Cryo-SFM Plus is a defined, animal component-free and protein-free cryopreservation medium developed to support consistent cell storage and reproducible recovery after thawing.
Nominated for the Scientists' Choice Awards 2025, Cryo-SFM Plus provides a standardized solution for optimal storage of human and animal cells.
Looking for a solution suitable for GMP workflows? PromoExQ CellNAP delivers the same proven cryopreservation performance in a regulatory-focused format designed for process development, cell therapy, regenerative medicine, and biobanking applications. Manufactured in compliance with the EXCiPACT™ GMP certification scheme, PromoExQ CellNAP is an Excipient GMP-grade* freezing medium that provides a traceable, regulatory-focused cryopreservation solution, supported by comprehensive documentation for clinical manufacturing.
Discover Cryo-SFM Plus - A new benchmark in animal component-free cryopreservation
Discover PromoExQ CellNAP - The GMP-ready cryopreservation solution with identical functional performance as Cryo-SFM Plus.
Proven post-thaw recovery and growth
Cryo-SFM Plus and PromoExQ CellNAP formulation have been evaluated in comparative cryopreservation studies using representative primary cells and stem cell models, including primary melanocytes and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These studies demonstrate improved recovery and growth after thawing compared with conventional freezing media.
Improved recovery and growth after thawing
Conventional freezing medium
Cryo-SFM Plus
Figure 1: Primary melanocytes cryopreserved in Cryo-SFM Plus show improved attachment and growth after thawing compared with cells frozen in a conventional freezing medium.
Quantitative post-thaw analysis
Figure 2: Cryo-SFM Plus delivers higher cell yield and faster post-thaw growth compare with a conventional freezing medium.
Key observations
- 36 % faster growth after thawing (lower population doubling time) in primary melanocytes compared with a conventional freezing medium
- 17 % higher cell yield after 72 hours in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) compared with a leading serum-free freezing medium
- Improved cell morphology and attachement after thawing
- PromoExQ CellNAP delivers identical functional performance to Cryo-SFM Plus, supporting a seamless transition to regulatory-ready GMP workflows
Defined, protein-free, animal component-free formulation
Cryo-SFM and PromoExQ CellNAP enable consistent cell storage and reliable recovery after thawing.
Key features include:
- Optimal cell yield: Supports high recovery of cells after thawing
- Protein-free and animal component-free: Minimizes risk of contamination or variability in cell cultures
- Innovative antioxidant technology: Preserves viability, attachement, and growth
- Powered by patented technology** combining cryoprotectants with an antioxidant formulation
- Lot-to-lot consistency that supports reproducible results across studies and manufacturing campaigns
Comprehensive documentation that supports GMP workflows
For GMP workflows, PromoExQ CellNAP includes a documentation package designed to simplify risk assessments and support regulatory submissions. Our audit-ready statement includes:
- Certificate of analysis (CoA)
- Statements on GMP compliance, BSE/TSE status, GMO status, and microbial and viral safety
- Certificate of Origin (CoO)
- Declaration of Conformity
Suitable for a variety of cell types
We developed Cryo-SFM Plus and PromoExQ CellNAP to support consistent cryopreservation across a wide range of cell types, including:
- Primary cells (e.g., melanocytes)
- Stem cells (e.g., MSCs, iPSC workflows)
- Immune cells (e.g., PBMCs)
- Established cell lines and cell aggregates (e.g., tumorspheres)
Learn more: Cryopreservation protocol and performance data
Successful cryopreservation depends on both the medium and the method. Our Cryo-SFM Plus Application Note combines practical guidance with quantitative performance data to help you optimize freezing and thawing workflows
Inside the application note:
- A detailed freezing and thawing protocol
- Quantitative post-thaw proliferation and viability profiles
- Comparative benchmarking data in sensitive cell types
- Practical guidance for optimizing recovery after thawing
Cryopreservation success starts with the right medium - and the right method.
*“GMP-grade” is a branding term used by PromoCell to denote reagents that are manufactured at the PromoCell manufacturing facility in Heidelberg, Germany, under strictly controlled processes to meet stringent product specifications and customer requirements. Reagents manufactured at PromoCell are produced in accordance with EXCiPACT™ GMP standards, a quality management system that builds on our ISO 9001:2015 certification. Risk assessment procedures are carried out at the customer site.
**Our technology is patented in Germany and pending approval in other countries.
Not sure which cryopreservation medium fits your workflow? Have questions about cryopreservation protocols, sensitive cell handling, recovery optimization or your RUO to GMP transition? Our scientific support team is here to help.