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Tamper-Proof Time-Temperature Indicator for Inspecting Ultracold Supply Chain.
Lam Tan Hao1,2, Minkyung Lee1, Hyeonyeol Jeon1
1Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea.
ACS Omega
|April 5, 2021
Summary
A novel time-temperature indicator (TTI) monitors the cold chain for messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. This TTI detects temperature deviations in the ultracold range, ensuring vaccine integrity during transport and storage.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biotechnology
- Logistics
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for effective messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines.
- Current cold chain logistics face challenges in maintaining ultracold temperatures required for mRNA vaccine stability.
- Ensuring vaccine authenticity and integrity is critical for public trust and therapeutic efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a robust monitoring tool for the ultracold supply chain of mRNA vaccines.
- To create a time-temperature indicator (TTI) capable of detecting subtle temperature changes in subzero ranges (e.g., -70 to -60 °C).
- To differentiate between "meaningless" short-term temperature fluctuations and "meaningful" prolonged exposure to undesired temperatures.
Main Methods:
- A dyed, noneutectic ethylene glycol/water mixture designed to melt near the mRNA conservation temperature (-69 °C) was utilized.
- The mixture's diffusion into a white absorbent material creates a visible colored trace.
- Heterogeneous ice particles in the mobile phase prevent absorption during brief room temperature exposures, filtering out insignificant temperature excursions.
Main Results:
- The developed TTI can detect small temperature changes within the critical subzero range for mRNA vaccine storage.
- The indicator effectively distinguishes between short-term, inconsequential temperature exposures and longer-term, detrimental excursions above -60 °C.
- The TTI provides a visual, reliable record of temperature integrity throughout the vaccine's cold supply chain.
Conclusions:
- The proposed TTI offers a novel solution for monitoring the ultracold supply chain integrity of mRNA vaccines.
- This technology can help ensure the safety and efficacy of vaccines by preventing deterioration due to temperature mismanagement.
- The findings facilitate the secure and reliable distribution of temperature-sensitive vaccines, including those for COVID-19.
