In the world of life science research and modern medical technology, a lot of energy is often spent on researching new therapies and the precise storage of biological samples. However, one critical area is often neglected: sample transportation. The moment a sample leaves its stable environment in the cryobank to be sent to another laboratory, a clinic or across national borders is fraught with risk.
A rise in temperature during transportation - even if it is only brief - can irreparably damage the integrity of the samples. Especially in the case of personalized therapies or rare cell lines, there is no plan B. A transportation error often means the loss of years of research work or, in the worst case, jeopardizing patient treatment.
Consarctic® has recognized this risk and offers specialized cryogenic transport containers and accompanying technologies that guarantee the safety of samples even under extreme conditions. In this article, we analyze the challenges of global cold chain logistics and show how modern technology overcomes these hurdles.
Conventional parcel shipping is unsuitable for cryopreserved samples. The challenges are manifold:
International shipping can take days due to customs delays or logistical bottlenecks. The cooling solution must function independently and stably over a long period of time without being dependent on an external power supply.
Packages are thrown, shaken and exposed to extreme pressure conditions (e.g. in the cargo hold of an airplane). The insulation and the inner structure of the container must withstand these forces without the vacuum or the hermetic seal being damaged.
Liquid nitrogen (LN2) is considered a dangerous good. Its transportation in liquid form is subject to strict safety regulations and is completely prohibited on passenger aircraft. This severely restricts the logistical possibilities.
The Dry Shipper (dry shipping container) is the answer to all three problems mentioned above.
The inside of a Consarctic® cryocontainer from the ASR+ series is lined with a special, highly porous material. This material acts as a sponge for liquid nitrogen.
In a strictly regulated environment (e.g. clinical studies according to GCP or drug production according to GMP), it is not enough for the samples to remain cold - you have to be able to provide complete proof.
Consarctic® offers optional solutions for seamless temperature monitoring throughout transportation.
Our experience from decades of working with biobanks and pharmaceutical companies has been incorporated into the design of the ASR+ series.
Sample transportation does not have to be a factor of uncertainty in your research. With the specialized solutions from Consarctic® you can ensure that your valuable work arrives safely at its destination. Saving on logistics means saving in the wrong place. Rely on certified safety and complete transparency.
Do you have any questions about the global transportation of your cryopreserved samples? Our experts will be happy to advise you on the selection of the right containers and the implementation of a monitoring system for your cold chain logistics.