Trajan Mitra® Device Specification Sheet

Significance of the topic

Volumetric absorptive microsampling (VAMS) represents a paradigm shift in blood collection for analytical and diagnostic applications. By enabling precise, low-volume sampling outside conventional clinical environments, it addresses critical needs in remote patient monitoring, pharmacokinetic studies, population health screening, and decentralized clinical trials. The ability to collect dried blood microsamples reliably improves sample integrity, reduces logistical constraints, and enhances patient comfort.

Study objectives and overview

This document reviews the design and performance characteristics of the single-use Mitra® device utilizing VAMS® technology. The primary goals are to describe: how fixed volumes of blood (10, 20 or 30 µL) are captured; device handling and storage requirements; regulatory status across global regions; and the operational benefits spanning laboratory, home, and field use. The overview underscores Mitra’s role in method development, non-diagnostic research, and future diagnostic workflows.

Methodology

The Mitra device employs a polymeric absorbent tip that sequesters a defined volume of whole blood via capillary action. A standard fingertip prick produces a droplet of blood; the VAMS tip is applied until color saturation indicates complete volume uptake. Devices may feature one to four sampling tips. After collection, the housing snaps shut, isolating the dried sample. Device storage tolerates temperatures up to 30 °C (short-term transport up to 45 °C), while sample storage conditions depend on analyte stability and are defined by the end user.

Used Instrumentation

• Mitra® microsampling devices with VAMS® polymer tips (10, 20 or 30 µL capacity)
• Disposable lancets for capillary blood access
• Specimen bags with desiccant packs for moisture control
• Native barcode labels for sample tracking
• Standard laboratory liquid-handling platforms for extraction of dried samples
• Mail or courier services for ambient transport without cold chain

Main results and discussion

Performance testing demonstrates volumetric precision better than 5 % RSD across the available sampling volumes. Dried microsamples remain stable at ambient conditions, simplifying logistics and reducing costs. The device’s tamper-resistant, single-use format supports biohazard safety and chain-of-custody requirements. Compatibility with automation and standard extraction protocols ensures seamless integration into high-throughput workflows.

Benefits and practical applications of the method

• Minimally invasive sampling increases patient compliance and enables serial measurements.
• Quantitative volume control enhances data reproducibility and analytical accuracy.
• Elimination of cold-chain shipping lowers transportation costs and environmental impact.
• Ambient stability of dried blood extends sampling reach to remote or resource-limited settings.
• Barcode tracking and tamper-resistant design bolster sample traceability and security.
• Automation compatibility accelerates processing in clinical, research, and QA/QC laboratories.

Future trends and potential applications

Emerging directions include integration of VAMS into decentralized clinical trial frameworks, remote patient self-sampling for telemedicine, and large-scale population screening. Advances in multiplexed bioanalysis, proteomics, metabolomics, and pathogen detection will expand VAMS utility. Coupling microsampling with digital health platforms and real-time data analytics offers a vision for personalized, point-of-care diagnostics.

Conclusion

The Mitra device, leveraging patented VAMS technology, offers a robust solution for precise, low-volume microsampling of whole blood. Its simplicity, ambient stability, and regulatory approvals across multiple regions position it as a versatile tool for research, method development, and future diagnostic applications. Adoption of VAMS-based sampling can streamline workflows, reduce costs, and extend the reach of bioanalytical testing.

References

No references provided in the source document.