Systems and methods for cryopreservation of cells

A cryopreservation device (60) includes an adapter (65) mounted in a port of a container (62) for receiving and storing a liquid sample. The adapter includes a first tubular branch (67) closed by a needle septum (72) and a second tubular branch (69) that includes a flexible tube (74) terminating in a needle septum (75). The container is initially at a pressure below atmospheric. In use, the sample is injected through the septum into the second branch. The flexible tube is then heat sealed and cut. The sealed container can then undergo a cryopreservation protocol. After thawing, the liquid sample can be removed using a needle that pierces the septum in the first branch. An autonucleation device may be introduced into the container that includes a hollow tube containing a crystalline cholesterol matrix, in which the ends of the tube are closed by a membrane impermeable to cholesterol but permeable to liquids, and provides a site for the Ice nucleation during freezing of the liquid sample inside the container. (Automatic translation with Google Translate, without legal value)