Secure Robotized Sample Vault
The lynchpin of modern biomedical research is the ability to acquire, secure, archive, and use large numbers of biological samples. Many institutions spend millions collecting samples yet subsequently under fund the downstream management of those same samples. Through the course of our research at deCODE Genetics, we realized that the value of our samples could only be leveraged if we could protect them from catastrophe and if our scientists could quickly query, select, and access individual specimens from our vast repository. In response to this need, we built the first Secure Robotized Sample Vault (SRSV) to archive 530,000 clinical specimens at -25°C.
deCODE now offers several product versions of the SRSV to the research and clinical communities, ranging in tube size, sample number and temperature (ambient to -80°C). This automated sample management solution is delivered as a “turn-key” system that is customized to fit your research needs and the biorepository requirements of your organization.
We can also store samples from our contract service customers in the SRSV, which offers convenience and cost savings for follow analyses in our laboratory.
Flawless performance
Our SRSV is a magnificent “proof-of-principle” success story. During the eight years of full time service since its construction, our robots and informatics systems have flawlessly executed millions of sample transactions. There have been no sample errors or freezer failures and subsequently the SRSV has preserved excellent sample quality over time. This system has enabled our scientists to make dozens of breakthrough discoveries and propel biomedical science forward at an unprecedented rate.
Components and functions of the SRVS
The SRSV is comprised of a refrigerated and heavily insulated room, supported by redundant compressors and power supplies. Lining the interior perimeter of the room are floor-to-ceiling shelving units that have sample carrying capacity exceeding 5,000,000 samples. The system can accommodate a broad variety of tube brands, from sub-mL to 50mL.
Sample tubes are stored in large customized racks. The racks of sample tubes are shuttled between perimeter shelving units and worktables by a Fanuc M-410i Series Industrial robot. A Fanuc M6i Series Industrial robot selects and re-arrays samples from the customized shelving racks to import/export trays on worktables. The M6i robot also accepts and delivers import/export trays through an access port in the side of the SRSV. The robot will only deliver racks of samples to individuals authorized to accept exactly those samples. In this way, the SRSV maintains strict chain of custody and enforces administrative control over IRB approved samples. The SRSV robots work unattended twenty-four hours per day. Moreover, a human could not match the rate and accuracy of sample picking achieved by the robots. And because the SRSV is a closed system, samples are not exposed to the constant freeze thaw of an open freezer door.
Sample Management System
One of the most important parts of the SRSV is the bioinformatic Sample Management System (SMS). This software application allows users to assign attributes and administrative privileges to each sample and it tracks all sample locations via barcode. Samples may be queried based upon attributes and other properties (including disease categories, principal investigators who have authority over sample use, dates of acquisition, etc.). Samples can also be tracked in other storages such as in locations and freezers other than the SRSV, features that can be customized to a certain degree for each location.
For more information, please contact services@decode.com
