
World Cancer Day: The Role of Cold Storage in Oncology Research
Introduction
February brings us the remembrance of World Cancer Day. This month we slow down and reflect on the power of cancer research and advancements in the fight against this pervasive disease. Oncology research demands precision and reliable tools to store and preserve testing materials. Whether it’s cryopreserving tumor cells or storing biological samples, cold storage plays a crucial role in advancing cancer research. For labs involved in oncology, investing in advanced cold storage solutions can make all the difference.
Why Cold Storage is Critical in Oncology Research
Oncology research depends upon the complexities of cell research and testing new therapies. These processes often involve the storage of highly sensitive materials, including:
- Cryopreserved Cell Lines: Cancer cell lines are essential for studying tumor growth and testing drug efficacy. Maintaining their viability requires ultra-low temperatures.
- Biospecimens: Tissues, blood samples, and other biological materials are critical for biomarker discovery and personalized medicine.
- CAR-T Therapies: Cutting-edge treatments like CAR-T cell therapy rely on cryopreserved immune cells, which need precise temperature control during storage and transport.1
Without dependable cold storage systems, the integrity of these materials could be compromised, leading to setbacks in research and development.
Isothermal Freezers: Protecting What Matters Most
Isothermal freezers are a game-changer for oncology research. Unlike conventional freezers, these systems separate liquid nitrogen from the samples, containing it in a jacketed sleeve between the inner and outer walls of the unit. This unique design offers numerous benefits:
Unique Jacketed LN2 Design: Traditional cryogenic units store LN2 in the same space as the samples which can cause sample contamination or spoilage. Isothermal freezers eliminate these hazards by housing the LN2 in a separate chamber around the samples.
Heightened Safety for Staff: Keeping the liquid nitrogen in its own contained jacketed sleeve enhances safety for staff. It also eliminates the splashing of LN during sample retrieval.
Increased Storage Space: Eliminating the space for LN2 at the bottom of the unit frees up all that space for more samples. Isothermal freezers give you back up to 6-inches of storage across the base of the unit.
Controlled Rate Freezers: Precision at Its Finest
For oncology labs working with sensitive samples in cryopreservation, controlled rate freezers are indispensable. These devices enable researchers to freeze samples at a carefully regulated rate, minimizing cellular damage caused by rapid temperature changes. This is particularly critical for:
Stem Cell Preservation: Stem cells are highly sensitive to freezing processes. Controlled rate freezing ensures their viability for downstream applications, such as bone marrow transplants.
Experimental Therapies: Novel cancer treatments often involve the storage of genetically modified cells, which require precise freezing protocols to maintain integrity.
By investing in controlled rate freezers, oncology researchers can preserve the integrity of their samples, ensuring reproducibility and reliability in their experiments. Learn more about these freezers here.
Choosing the Right Oncology Research Equipment
For labs engaged in oncology research, choosing the right cold storage solutions is about protecting your research and advancing scientific discovery. Whether you’re preserving immune cells for therapy, or tumor samples for drug studies, investing in advanced cold storage systems ensures your lab is equipped for success.
Final Thoughts
Cold storage isn’t just equipment, it’s the backbone of oncology research. With the right systems in place, labs can push the boundaries of cancer science and make breakthrough discoveries. As we continue to innovate in the field of cold storage, the impact on oncology research—and ultimately patient health—will be profound.