This study evaluated the effect of cryopreservation on the structural organization, biosynthetic activity, and material properties of canine menisci. The menisci were cryopreserved by incubating them in a 4% solution of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in physiologic media and freezing them to -100 degrees C using a controlled rate freezing system. The menisci were then stored for varying periods of time from zero to 12 weeks in liquid nitrogen (-196 degrees C). Following rapid thawing, changes in the histological appearance and biosynthetic activity of the menisci were evaluated as functions of storage time. In addition, the effects of the cryopreservation process on the tensile strength and modulus of the meniscal tissue were assessed. Although cryopreservation and short-term storage did not appear to affect the morphological appearance or biomechanical character of the menisci, biosynthetic activity, as determined by Na2S35SO4 incorporation, was diminished to less than 50% of normal control values immediately following cryopreservation and thawing. Autoradiographic examination of these tissues revealed that only approximately 10% of the meniscal cells were metabolically active, however, indicating that a marked increase in the metabolic activity of individual cells occurs following the freeze-thaw cycle. Total metabolic activity continued to decline with storage time.