This invention is a stool and tissue preservation/ collection device that can be used without exposing the user to toxic preservatives.
Background & Unmet Need:
Preservation of human tissues and stool samples for molecular and structural analysis frequently requires rapid immersion of samples to highly toxic preservatives, some of which produce volatile fumes that are dangerous to breathe. There is a need for preservation and collection devices that can be used by a variety of professionals in different settings without exposing the user to toxicants.
Technology Description:
WSU inventors have designed devices that enable small pieces of human tissue or stool to be rapidly immersed and preserved at room temperature in toxic preservatives without exposing the end user to the toxicants. Samples contained in the device can be safely stored or used for biochemical, molecular, and structural analysis. The device design makes it very easy and safe to operate. The devices can be used at home, hospital, or out in the field for forensic sample collection without the need for refrigeration. Furthermore, the provider/manufacture of the devices has the flexibility of using any preservative of choice thereby greatly expanding the types of tissue to be preserved and the tests that can be performed
Commercial Applications:
· Use in clinical and hospital settings
· Collection of tissue or stool samples at remote locations
· For collection and preservation of tissues during surgery by nurse or physicians
Stage of Development:
Several working prototypes of the device have been built in the laboratory
Competitive Advantages:
- Designed to accommodate larger volumes and totally immerse samples in the preservative fluid
- Designed for collection/preservation without exposing the user to the toxic preservative
· Ease of use allows for self-collection and preservation of stool samples by non-scientists
Intellectual Property Status:
Patent application pending
Related Publications or Citations of Work:
None