Does Storing Samples at -20°C for 3 Months Affect Detection Results?

For most biological and chemical samples, storage at -20°C for up to three months generally does not significantly impact the detection results. However, the specific effects depend on the sample type and detection method. Biological samples such as DNA, RNA, and proteins can typically be stored at -20°C for extended periods without affecting subsequent molecular biology tests like PCR, Western blotting, or ELISA. However, repeated freeze-thaw cycles may damage these molecules, so it is best to avoid them. For clinical samples such as blood or urine, storage conditions depend on the specific tests to be performed. Some tests may be highly sensitive to sample handling and storage conditions.

 

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