The somatostatin analog L-363,586 is a cyclic hexapeptide having the structure; cyclo-(N-methyl-Ala-Tyr-d-Trp-Lys-Val-Phe). L-363,586 has been found to be useful for inducing gastric cytoprotection via a mechanism not involving the inhibition of gastric acid secretions. Specific therapeutic utilities include, erosive gastritis, erosive esophagitis, inflammatory bowel disease and ethanol induced hemorrhagic gastric erosions.

The present invention provides methods for preserving living biological materials by lyophilization that enable cells and tissues to be stored for extended periods of time with minimal loss of biological activity. In one embodiment, the inventive methods comprise contacting a biological material with a preservative solution comprising trimethyl amine oxide, sodium citrate and sodium chloride, reducing the temperature of the biological material to less than 0.degree. C., and drying the biological material to provide a freeze-dried material. The preservative solutions employed in the inventive methods are preferably isotonic with the material to be preserved and substantially free of iodide, dihydrogen phosphate, bicarbonate, nitrate and bisulfate.

The present invention provides methods for preserving living biological materials by lyophilization that enable cells and tissues to be stored for extended periods of time with minimal loss of biological activity. In one embodiment, the inventive methods comprise contacting a biological material with a preservative solution comprising either betaine or trimethyl amine oxide, together with sodium citrate and sodium chloride, reducing the temperature of the biological material to less than 0.degree. C., and drying the biological material to provide a freeze-dried material. The preservative solutions employed in the inventive methods are preferably isotonic with the material to be preserved and substantially free of iodide, dihydrogen phosphate, bicarbonate, nitrate and bisulfate.