How long do I have to send my sample back to the lab? At what temperature should I store it?

Saliva samples from DNA kits, once mixed with the preservative solution, are stable at room temperature (15°C to 30°C) and last up to 12 months. However, it is highly recommended to store the sample in the refrigerator, as temperatures close to 4ºC help prevent DNA degradation. Unused kits remain stable at room temperature for up to 5 years. 

The saliva preservation tube, where the swabs are deposited, includes a preservative solution that is added to the saliva immediately after the collection of your sample. The preservative solution guarantees the integrity of the genetic material, prevents bacterial contamination, and ensures the long-term stability of the saliva sample at room temperature. Do not leave the sample out of the liquid at any time, exposed to the air, and ensure when shaking the tube that the ends of the swab are well submerged and soaked.

As you can see, nothing special needs to be done to preserve the tellmeGen DNA kits perfectly. However, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures or storage outside the optimal temperature range can negatively impact the sample’s performance in the laboratory.