Staying Hydrated -- A Comparative Analysis of Humectants in Human Cadaveric Tissue
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| Title: | Staying Hydrated -- A Comparative Analysis of Humectants in Human Cadaveric Tissue |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Rachel Prince, Joseph R. Monsen, Zak Webber, Ayden L. Olsen, Tanner Nelson, Craig J. Reeves, Jason S. Adams |
| Source: | HAPS Educator. 2025 29(4):5-13. |
| Availability: | Human Anatomy and Physiology Society. PO Box 2945, LeGrange, GA 30421. e-mail: editor@hapsconnect.org; Web site: https://www.hapsweb.org/page/hapsed_home |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 9 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Intended Audience: | Teachers |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Descriptors: | Human Body, Anatomy, Death, Water, Preservation, Biological Sciences |
| Geographic Terms: | Utah |
| ISSN: | 2473-3792 2473-3806 |
| Abstract: | Humectants are an important class of compounds that attract and retain water within cells. When humectants are mixed with water to create wetting solutions, they prevent desiccation of cadaveric specimens. Recognizing a relative scarcity of comparative studies analyzing the effectiveness of various wetting solutions on post-preservation cadaveric maintenance, we utilized wet-dry analysis in order to compare the effects of four common humectants (2-phenoxy ethanol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and glycerol) on water retention in human cadaveric brain, cardiac muscle, liver, lung, skeletal muscle, and skin tissue. We created a concentration gradient for each humectant to identify the optimal concentration of each compound for water retention. Afterward, we directly compared water retention at the optimal concentrations of each humectant under standardized conditions. Through this simple assay, we showed that all types of cadaveric tissues submerged in concentrations of 13-15% glycerol resulted in the most retained moisture. This study addresses a significant gap in the scientific literature regarding the use of humectants in anatomical preservation. Our results will provide anatomy educators and lab technicians with evidence-based guidance for selecting the most effective humectants for their preservation needs, contributing to improved cadaver quality and educational outcomes. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1495064 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | Humectants are an important class of compounds that attract and retain water within cells. When humectants are mixed with water to create wetting solutions, they prevent desiccation of cadaveric specimens. Recognizing a relative scarcity of comparative studies analyzing the effectiveness of various wetting solutions on post-preservation cadaveric maintenance, we utilized wet-dry analysis in order to compare the effects of four common humectants (2-phenoxy ethanol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and glycerol) on water retention in human cadaveric brain, cardiac muscle, liver, lung, skeletal muscle, and skin tissue. We created a concentration gradient for each humectant to identify the optimal concentration of each compound for water retention. Afterward, we directly compared water retention at the optimal concentrations of each humectant under standardized conditions. Through this simple assay, we showed that all types of cadaveric tissues submerged in concentrations of 13-15% glycerol resulted in the most retained moisture. This study addresses a significant gap in the scientific literature regarding the use of humectants in anatomical preservation. Our results will provide anatomy educators and lab technicians with evidence-based guidance for selecting the most effective humectants for their preservation needs, contributing to improved cadaver quality and educational outcomes. |
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| ISSN: | 2473-3792 2473-3806 |
