Introduction
It is well recognized that suboptimal preservation and long-term storage conditions can impact sample quality(1), therefore, it is critical that researchers ensure biosamples are stored in appropriate conditions such as Ultra Low Temperature Storage (ULT Storage) so the samples can be accessed and used in future research.
Table of Contents
What is ULT Storage?
ULT Storage environments typically range from -80°C mechanical freezers all the way down to -196°C liquid nitrogen storage tanks. The exact storage temperature recommended can vary depending on sample type, preparation and intended use – generally speaking, the more sensitive the sample, the lower the storage temperature required.
Maintaining ULT Storage is a complex operation, especially when performed to ISBER Best Practices such as;
- Monitoring, recording and review of critical parameters.
- Backup power and/or alternate cooling systems alongside emergency response planning.
- Storage systems should be equipped with redundancy.
Outsourcing ULT Storage of biological samples in our Global Integrated Analytical Biorepository can help simplify these complexities for researchers as well as benefitting from; financial flexibility, expertise, new technology, operational efficiency, quality assurance and disaster recovery and focusing on research aims.
Understanding ULT Storage
ULT storage is critical for maintaining the integrity of biological samples, such as DNA, RNA, proteins, and cells. It involves keeping samples at extremely low temperatures to prevent metabolic processes and biochemical reactions that could degrade the samples. Typically, ULT storage temperatures range from -80°C, commonly used in laboratory freezers, to -196°C, achieved using liquid nitrogen storage systems. These temperatures ensure that biological materials are effectively “frozen in time,” preserving their structure and function for long-term use.
Financial Benefits of Outsourcing ULT Storage
Outsourcing ultra-low temperature (ULT) storage could transform significant capital expenditures (CAPEX) into manageable operational expenditures (OPEX), allowing research institutions to avoid the high costs of purchasing and maintaining expensive equipment as well as energy consumption. This shift enhances financial flexibility by spreading costs over time and freeing up capital for other essential projects, aiding in better financial planning and resource allocation.
Furthermore, outsourcing ULT storage reduces financial risks associated with equipment maintenance, technological obsolescence, and regulatory compliance. Leveraging specialized storage providers ensures advanced infrastructure and expertise without the burden of costly upgrades and repairs, offering scalable solutions that adapt to changing research needs without significant financial strain.2
Expertise in Sample Management
Sampled specializes in ULT storage and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to biobank services. We are CAP accredited and operate to ISBER best practices, employing stringent protocols and advanced technologies to manage sample collections and monitor storage conditions of biological materials, ensuring samples are preserved optimally. This professional oversight minimizes the risk of sample loss or degradation due to equipment failure or improper handling or when storing biological materials.
Access to Technology
Outsourcing ULT storage gives researchers access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. Sampled continuously upgrades biostorage technologies, ensuring that the latest advancements in cryogenic sample storage are available to researchers.
Sampled invest in the latest technological advancements and methodologies in ULT freezer and cryogenic storage technologies. By outsourcing, researchers benefit from these upgrades without bearing the costs and logistical challenges of updating in-house systems especially cryogenic sample storage infrastructure which can be extremely prohibitive in terms of SIVL line installation and maintenance costs.
Access to Expertise and Efficiency
With over 25 years’ experience in biobank services, Sampled have specialized knowledge and expertise, ensuring optimal long term storage conditions and handling practices. This expertise is crucial in maintaining sample viability and quality, reducing the risk of sample degradation.
Outsourcing to Sampled offers scalable biological sample storage solutions that can adjust to the changing needs of research projects. Whether the storage requirement increases or decreases, Sampled can accommodate these changes without significant investments or disruptions to ongoing research. We can even offer solutions for entire sample freezer storage (including your own freezers on our sites) freezer boxes or down to the individual primary vessels and create aliquots for backup storage.
Quality Assurance & Disaster Recovery
Outsourcing ultra-low temperature (ULT) storage to Sampled ensures rigorous quality control measures to maintain consistent and reliable storage conditions. These measures include regular inspections, continuous remote monitoring, and thorough maintenance protocols including comprehensive temperature mapping. This attention to detail ensures the integrity, cold chain, viability, and usability of biological samples at a range of storage temperatures for future research endeavors.
By maintaining stringent quality control standards, Sampled can mitigate against potential sample degradation and loss, ensuring that the biological material maintain integrity. This reliability is critical for the success of long-term research projects, as it guarantees that stored samples will retain their necessary properties and data integrity over extended periods even in cryostorage.
Another key for disaster recovery is the availability of on-site technical services teams, redundant systems and backup generators. Our Global Integrated Analytical biorespository was design with all these features based on over 25 years experience storing biological samples to ensure the optimal environment.
Focus on Research Aims
By outsourcing ULT storage, research institutions can allocate more resources to their core research activities. This shift allows researchers to focus on their scientific inquiries rather than the logistical challenges of managing ULT storage systems for biological materials.
Conclusion
Outsourcing ULT storage to Sampled can offer significant benefits, including financial flexibility, expertise, new technology, operational efficiency, quality assurance and disaster recovery and focusing on research aims. By leveraging the expertise of the team here at Sampled, researchers can ensure the long-term preservation of their valuable biological samples while focusing on their core scientific activities. If you are considering outsourcing your ULT storage needs for biological samples, you can learn more about our Global Integrated Analytical Biorepository and biobanking services here.
References:
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/263014433_Storage_of_Human_Biospecimens_Selection_of_the_Optimal_Storage_Temperature
- https://academic.oup.com/femsre/article/29/5/897/547905
