Short and long-term storage instructions for dried Mitra® specimens

Significance of the Topic

Dried microsampling offers a practical alternative to liquid matrices by simplifying collection, shipment, and storage while preserving analyte integrity. The Mitra device with volumetric absorptive microsampling (VAMS) technology delivers fixed-volume sampling that supports decentralized studies and biobanking without extensive cold chain logistics.

Objectives and Study Overview

This guidance evaluates short- and long-term storage strategies for dried specimens collected on Mitra devices. It examines analyte stability under room temperature, elevated temperature, freeze-thaw cycling, and frozen storage to recommend best practices tailored to study requirements.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Samples were collected using Mitra devices in clamshell, cartridge, and 96-Autorack formats, each housing a VAMS tip that precisely absorbs 10, 20 or 30 µL of biofluids. Desiccant sachets and sealed storage bags controlled moisture. Stability studies included:

• Room temperature storage up to 30 days
• 37 °C transport simulation for up to 11 days
• Up to three freeze-thaw cycles
• Long-term frozen storage including deep freezers and alternative Eppendorf tube method

Main Results and Discussion

Key findings from the SARS-CoV-2 IgG and renal function marker studies include:

• IgG stability at room temperature remained within ±20 % bias for up to 30 days
• Under 37 °C conditions, IgG retained stability for one week before significant decline
• No significant loss after three freeze-thaw cycles
• Iohexol quantification remained accurate after 245 days at variable frozen temperatures

These results confirm that dried VAMS tips maintain analyte integrity across practical handling and storage scenarios.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Dried sampling on Mitra devices reduces cold chain requirements, minimizes contamination risk, and lowers storage footprint. High-throughput formats (96-Autorack) and flexible transfer into microtube formats support batch or individual sample processing. This approach is applicable to infectious disease serology, therapeutic drug monitoring, metabolic profiling, and pediatric assessments.

Future Trends and Potential Uses

Emerging directions include integration with automated liquid handlers for metabolomics, broader adoption in decentralized clinical trials, and expanded biobanking under ultra-low temperatures. Custom storage solutions, barcoded tube formats, and further validation of in-tube storage are expected to enhance sample traceability and long-term stability.

Conclusion

Mitra VAMS devices offer robust, user-friendly dried sampling that preserves analytes across diverse storage conditions. By selecting appropriate short- or long-term storage products and handling protocols, laboratories can optimize sample integrity, reduce costs, and streamline workflows for large-scale studies.

Reference

1. Application of Volumetric Absorptive Microsampling Devices to the Simoa SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibody Test
2. Volumetric absorptive microsampling as alternative sampling technique for renal function assessment in the paediatric population using iohexol
3. Pre-analytic evaluation of volumetric absorptive microsampling and integration in a mass spectrometry-based metabolomics workflow