Abstract: The claimed subject matter is based on the finding that it is possible to cryopreserve cancellous bone tissue with viable cells (after reconstitution by either thawing or rehydration), the viability after reconstitution being comparable to that of a fresh sample (without freezing) and of beneficial value for use in, for example, transplantation. Thus, provided is a method for cryopreserving a cancellous bone sample. The cryopreserved cancellous bone sample can be in dry form, for example, lyophilized. Also provided is a cryopreserved, in dry form, bone sample and the use of a cryopreserved bone sample; a method for identifying such cryopreserved cancellous bone tissue and uses thereof.