Relevant criteria for the selection of cryotubes. Experiences from the German National Cohort

Abstract Background The storage of different biomaterials over long time periods is one of the main requirements of biobanking ensuring that modifications in the composition or any other change of the biomaterials have to be avoided. In the German National Cohort samples from around 200,000 participants are processed and stored long term. Methods A tender for cryotubes and racks was performed in 2013 setting up several characteristics that were judged against each other. Tubes and racks were evaluated regarding the performance and handling in connection with the main biorepository. With a 5-year experience using the selected tubes we are able to reflect some of the criteria of the tender. Results At the end of the decision, the former company FluidX, in the meantime taken over from Brooks (Brooks Life Sciences, Manchester, UK), received the order. The experience with the external testing of the tube was useful. Conclusions Overall, the experience with the cryotubes is good and their mechanical handling at the different sites is routine in the meantime. There are some aspects that we recommend for future tenders. Further research is necessary to learn more about the cryotubes and the labware in general in the field of biobanking to store our samples as safely as possible.