X-Message-Number: 2064
Newsgroups: sci.cryonics
From:  (Christopher Michael Rasch)
Subject: Experiment Brainstorm
Message-ID: <>
Date: Mon, 5 Apr 93 03:58:19 GMT


	I'm taking a Biology Lab class.  We are allowed to design 
and execute an experiment of our choice.  I'm going to do an 
experiment relevant in some way to cryonics.  I'd be most grateful for any
ideas or suggestions for experiments.

	The experiment must be completed by May 25.  I'm allowed to use 
any chemicals or equipment "within reason" (i.e. liquid nitrogen, yes; 
Big Foot Dewar, no ) I'll also have access to a lab throughout the 
quarter.
	
	We are guaranteed flies, lettuce, ants, yeast, and e. coli.  They 
can provide other organisms (i.e. nematodes, snails, star fish) if 
warned in advance.  
   
	Here are some questions I'm considering:

	How does freezing at different temperatures affect the 
	individual neurons?
	
	How do insects not adapted for freezing react to freezing.

Repeat Gerry Arthus's experiments with the round worms
	
	How many round worms survived?
	What is the difference between the round worms that survived 
	compared to those that didn't?
	How large a sample is needed for the experiment to be 
	statistically valid?
	What cryoprotectants gave the best protection?

	How does the rate of freezing affect cell membrane shrinkage ?
	How does the rate of thaw affect cell membrane shrinkage?

	How does rate and evenness of thawing affect organ viablity?  How 
	can one increase that evenness of thawing?

	Why do glycerol, DMSO4 and other cryoprotectants protect 
	cells from freezing?  Why is DMSO4 toxic to cells?  

Any and all experimental suggestions are welcome.  Thanks for your time.

Chris Rasch

P.S.
Would someone tell me how to contact Mr. Arthus and/or point me to 
literature reference to his experiment?  

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