Efficient storage of biological samples

The challenge

The Rotterdam Study requires extensive collection and storage of biological samples, including blood and urine, to enable various health studies. These samples must be carefully labeled and stored for long periods. Traditionally, labels and barcodes were used, which could become damaged over time, especially when stored in -80°C freezers. This made it difficult to reliably identify and retrieve samples.

How did Erasmus MC overcome this? Introducing 2D tubes from Micronic

Four years ago, Erasmus MC decided to switch to Micronic tubes with 2D codes, supplied by NBS Scientific. These tubes offer several advantages:
1. Space Savings: Micronic tubes are smaller and thinner, meaning 1.5 times more tubes can fit in the freezers. This is crucial for an institution with limited storage capacity like Erasmus MC.
2. Reliability: The 2D codes ensure unambiguous and durable identification of samples, regardless of freezer conditions.
3. Efficiency: The tubes are automatically sealed with a capper, minimizing human errors and ensuring sample integrity.

Results at Erasmus MC

Since the introduction of Micronic tubes, Erasmus MC has observed significant improvements in their storage process:

• Space Savings: Thanks to the more compact size of Micronic tubes, significantly more samples can be stored in the same freezers.
• Better Identification: The 2D codes remain readable and intact, even under extreme freezing conditions, enhancing the reliability of sample identification.
• Increased Efficiency: The use of automatic capping equipment and structured pipetting procedures reduces the risk of errors and speeds up the process of sample processing and storage.

Conclusion

The switch to Micronic tubes with 2D codes has helped Erasmus MC maximize its storage capacity and improve the reliability of its long-term health studies. This case study highlights how innovative solutions and technologies can contribute to the success of large-scale medical research and the collection of valuable health data.
NBS Scientific is proud to support Erasmus MC in its groundbreaking research by providing the necessary tools and technologies to achieve its research goals.

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