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An efficient method for long-term room temperature storage of RNA
Anne-Lise Fabre1, Marthe Colotte2, Aurélie Luis2
11] Imagene, R&D Department, Université de Bordeaux 2, ENSTBB, Bordeaux, France [2] Imagene, Production Platform, Rue Henri Desbruères, Evry, France.
European Journal of Human Genetics : EJHG
|July 18, 2013
Summary
New technology preserves RNA at room temperature using stabilizer-filled capsules. This method protects RNA integrity, enabling long-term storage without freezing and ensuring compatibility with downstream applications like quantitative PCR.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- RNA integrity is crucial for various applications in molecular biology, medicine, and nanotechnology.
- Current RNA storage relies on freezing, which is costly and logistically challenging for large sample volumes.
- There is a need for stable room temperature preservation methods for RNA samples.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel room temperature RNA preservation technology.
- To assess the long-term stability and integrity of RNA stored using this new method.
- To confirm the compatibility of preserved RNA with downstream molecular analyses.
Main Methods:
- RNA samples were dried with a stabilizer and stored in air- and water-tight stainless steel minicapsules.
- RNA integrity was evaluated over time at room temperature and elevated temperatures (90°C).
- Degradation kinetics were modeled using an Arrhenius model, and RNA compatibility with reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was tested.
Main Results:
- Atmospheric humidity was identified as a primary factor in RNA degradation.
- An extrapolated room temperature degradation rate of 3.2 x 10(-13)/nt/s was determined, predicting minimal degradation over centuries.
- Stored RNA samples showed no significant change in Cq values in RT-qPCR after simulated decades of storage, indicating preserved integrity and functionality.
Conclusions:
- The novel room temperature RNA preservation method using stabilizer-infused minicapsules effectively maintains RNA integrity.
- This technology offers a viable, cost-effective alternative to cold chain storage for RNA samples.
- Preserved RNA remains suitable for sensitive downstream applications, facilitating broader research and diagnostic capabilities.
