Preservation of Biospecimens at Ambient Temperature: Special Focus on Nucleic Acids and Opportunities for the Biobanking Community

Biopreserv Biobank. 2016 Apr;14(2):89-98. doi: 10.1089/bio.2015.0022. Epub 2016 Feb 17.

Abstract

Several approaches to the preservation of biological materials at ambient temperature and the relative impact on sample stability and degradation are reviewed, with a focus on nucleic acids. This appraisal is undertaken within the framework of biobank risk, quality management systems, and accreditation, with a view to assessing how best to apply ambient temperature sample storage to ensure stability, reduce costs, improve handling logistics, and increase the efficiency of biobank procedures.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biological Specimen Banks / organization & administration*
  • Nucleic Acids*
  • Preservation, Biological / methods*
  • Quality Control
  • Temperature*

Substances

  • Nucleic Acids