Which storage condition helps preserve most biological samples during transport?

Which storage condition helps preserve most biological samples during transport?

• A. Room temperature
• B. Cold storage (2–8°C) or as specified for the sample.
• C. Freezer at -20°C for all samples
• D. Dry storage at 25°C

Answer: (B)

Keeping biological samples cold during transport relies on slowing down all the processes that cause deterioration. Storing specimens at 2–8°C reduces enzyme activity, slows chemical reactions, and inhibits microbial growth, which helps maintain the integrity of DNA, RNA, proteins, cells, and other biomolecules until they can be analyzed. Room temperature speeds up degradation, while freezing at -20°C isn’t universally suitable for every sample and can cause damage from ice crystal formation or require special handling and thawing care. Dry storage at 25°C offers no moisture control and isn’t appropriate for most biological materials that need a stabilized environment. For most samples, the cold chain (2–8°C, or as specified) provides the best balance of stability and practicality during transport.

Keeping biological samples cold during transport relies on slowing down all the processes that cause deterioration. Storing specimens at 2–8°C reduces enzyme activity, slows chemical reactions, and inhibits microbial growth, which helps maintain the integrity of DNA, RNA, proteins, cells, and other biomolecules until they can be analyzed. Room temperature speeds up degradation, while freezing at -20°C isn’t universally suitable for every sample and can cause damage from ice crystal formation or require special handling and thawing care. Dry storage at 25°C offers no moisture control and isn’t appropriate for most biological materials that need a stabilized environment. For most samples, the cold chain (2–8°C, or as specified) provides the best balance of stability and practicality during transport.