The DNAshell® and RNAshell®
minicapsules preserve DNA and RNA
from their main degradation factors
(water, oxygen, light) by maintaining an
anhydrous and anoxic atmosphere
in an hermetic manner.
Therefore nucleic acids can be preserved
at room temperature from short to long
periods.
Identified by a unique 2D laser-engraved
Data Matrix code, DNAshell® and
RNAshell® minicapsules guarantee
permanent, unalterable labeling and
traceability of DNA and RNA samples.
THE DNASHELL® AND RNASHELL®
MINICAPSULES
COMPOSITION
The Imagene shell is assembled with the following
components :
1. A metallic shell
2. A glass vial
3. A metallic cap
The bi-dimensional Datamatrix code
THE SHELL
Made of stainless steel, the shell protects the glass vial
and ensures (with the cap) a complete air tightness of the
minicapsule.
The useful volume of 0,8 cm3 (18 mm high and 7.5 mm in diameter)
is compatible with the SBS standard 96 well plates.
The bi-dimensional Data Matrix code is engraved on the external
bottom of the shell for an easy reading.
THE VIAL
Made of glass, the vial receives the nucleic acid solution deposited
by an automated aliquoting workstation. It enables full recovery of
the nucleic acids after rehydratation.
It weighs 0.35 g and its dimensions (13 x 6.82 mm, high and
diameter) fit perfectly the shell.
The total volume occupies 0.29 cm3 and the useful volume is 0.20
cm3 (i.e.200 µL).
THE CAP
Like the shell, the cap is made of stainless steel.
Its dimensions (3 mm high and 7.02 mm in diameter) are perfectly
adjusted to the shell : the cap is set on the shell by pressure.
For further analysis, the cap is perforated by the metallic punch of a
specific device.
THE AIR TIGHTNESS
The minicapsule is sealed by a laser which welds the junction between
the shell and the cap under an anhydrous and anoxic inert atmosphere.
This procedure ensures a complete air tightness of the capsule.
The laser Yag peripheral welding produces a negligible temperature rise
which does not affect the nucleic acids. Each capsule is tested for any
possible micro-leakage by helium test based on mass spectrometry.
Therefore, the DNAshell® and RNAshell® minicapsules can be stored in
SBS format 96 well racks at room temperature without need for a
temperature or humidity control device.
After opening with the shell opener, nucleic acids are rehydrated by
simple addition of water or a buffer solution.