Effective surface-based cryopreservation of human embryonic stem cells by vitrification

► We established a surface-based protocol for bulk vitrification of hESCs. ► It results in very high recovery rates and maintains pluripotency. ► Method is easy to handle and allows exact incubation times. ► Slow rate protocol of adherent hESCs results in disturbed membrane integrity. ► Efficiency of slow rate protocol is significantly lower and depends on colony size.