Noninvasive Quality Control of Cryopreserved Samples.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Biobanking requires robust quality control measures to maintain sample integrity.
• Current methods for assessing sample quality often involve invasive procedures or thawing, potentially compromising samples.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a novel noninvasive technology for in situ quality control in biobanking.
• To demonstrate the capability of detecting physical and chemical changes in preserved biological samples without thawing.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a contactless optical in situ method utilizing a remote detection unit.
• Application of emission spectroscopy, specifically Raman scattering, for detecting physical and chemical alterations.
• Focus on identifying ice formation within vitrified samples as an indicator of sample state.

Main Results:

• Successfully demonstrated the detection of ice formation in vitrified samples using Raman scattering.
• Validated the noninvasive nature of the optical technology for in situ monitoring.
• Showcased the ability to assess sample quality during cold storage and post-preservation without thawing.

Conclusions:

• The developed noninvasive optical technology offers a reliable method for biobanking quality control.
• Raman scattering provides a sensitive technique for detecting critical changes like ice formation in preserved samples.
• This technology enhances sample preservation and integrity assessment throughout the biobanking workflow.