What is lacking in the conventional methods currently used to manage biosamples from storage to retrieval to distribution?
Current methods of storing biosamples are generally limited to depositing a labeled test tube or Guthrie card containing blood or extracted DNA into a freezer, nitrogen tank, or other storage unit that is part of a larger group of independent units. As additional storage space is needed, units are added where space permits. Retrieval and preparation of biosamples for any distribution to remote laboratories is typically performed manually by hand. While biosamples can be managed in this manner, it is not operationally efficient, reliable, or easily scalable. As biosample libraries grow, these systems create a logistical challenge and limit an organization’s ability to access and share critical data. The costs of supporting and maintaining these systems can be significant and they are manually intensive, allowing the potential for human error at several steps. In addition labeling methods are unreliable, as labels deteriorate or fall off over time and are useless once a sample is removed
