Storage recommendations vary by sample type, but what is a common requirement for most biological samples?

A common requirement for most biological samples is temperature-controlled storage. This is essential to maintain the integrity and stability of the samples, as biological materials can degrade, become contaminated, or lose their viability if not stored under appropriate conditions.

Temperature control ensures that samples are kept at the optimum temperature to prevent bacterial growth, denaturing of proteins, and degradation of nucleic acids. For instance, many biological specimens need to be stored in a cold environment (usually refrigerated or frozen) to preserve their physical and chemical properties until analysis can be conducted. This is particularly true for blood, tissues, and other samples that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.

While freezing can be a specific method of storage applicable to certain samples, temperature-controlled storage encompasses a broader range of conditions, including refrigeration and controlled environments that may not necessarily involve freezing. Other specified storage types, like dried or room temperature conditions, are used for certain samples but are not as universally applicable as temperature-controlled storage, which addresses the preservation needs of various biological materials.