We are currently developing design specifications for a small building to store archival genetics samples, which are predominantly stored in 95% ethanol. What are some design considerations you would recommend? (temperature, humidity, etc.)
I would put samples into Dietrich's fluid, a mixture of equal parts of ethanol, glycerol and water. Main advantage: If the ethanol and water evaporate during long-term storage, the sample will be in glycerol (or glycerol/water mixtures) and hence not spoil.
It's probably worthwhile to keep samples cool and dark, but at least for microscopy (which is what I am familiar with), refrigerated storage is not necessary.
Dear David
I have experience in storage native tissue samples, but I never use ethanol. Usually I prefer liquid nitrogen. After a few years mRNA profyle stay without significant variation. My goal is gene expression profiling I don't need proteins and it is not important for me the degree of genomic DNA fragmentation.
In the case of -80oC storage we can see significant differences in mRNA level.
But it is vary for different genes.
Also we have an experience in tissue samples storage at -18. Unfortunately we can detect changes in mRNA level during a week or a month.
Thats all of my experience. I hope it helps you.
One year ago my colleagues tried to create similar DNA bank (with native tissue). They used liquid nitrogen too.
In our department we store animal tissue in absolute ethanol and temperature is not important but as mentioned above this way of storage is just for dna tests not rna.
In long time storage you have to check samples for evaporated ethanol.
Good luck.
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