Reagents and Hardware for RNA Storage at Ambient Temperatures

Application

Simple and economical method for isolating and storing RNA from biological samples at room temperatures.

Key Benefits

Alternative, low-cost extraction method suitable for extracting RNA from biological samples for molecular analysis and disease diagnosis.
Eliminates the need for expensive proprietary materials, hazardous chemicals, or energy-consuming freezers.
Ambient-temperature storage of the primary sample in lysis buffer for up to 7 days.
Ambient-temperature storage and RNA stability for up to 35 days.

Market Summary

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is central to protein synthesis and many other essential cellular processes. RNA is often extracted from cells and biological samples for evaluation in downstream assays like transcriptomics, PCR, and molecular detection of infectious pathogens and disease diagnosis (e.g., cancer). However, while RNA is used globally, extracting and isolation is challenging as it is fragile and easily degraded by enzymes and high temperatures. Although several methods are available for extracting and isolating RNA, many are time-consuming, expensive, and require highly trained technicians.

Technical Summary

Emory researchers are developing a novel method for extracting and storing RNA that is stable at ambient temperatures. The method, called RNAES, involves lysing the cells using a proprietary buffer that is passed through a small cartridge containing a binding membrane. The RNA binds to the membrane, and the unbound material is washed away. Then the membrane is transferred to a drying tube containing desiccant beads and stored at room temperature. Thus far, the inventors have prototyped the method using clinical samples positive for dengue virus, chikungunya virus, hepatitis C virus, and SARS-CoV-2. Compared to commercial extraction kits, the RNAES method yielded equivalent viral RNA detection, decreased cost, generated full length viral genomes in Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms, stabilized the sample for 7 days at ambient temperature, and provided ambient temperature RNA storage for up to 35 days.