Device and method of collection for rna viruses

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to a method and device for inactivation and dry storage, under ambient conditions, of a biological sample containing RNA virus. Methods for collecting and recovering RNA from a biological sample and subsequent analysis for a virus are also provided.

1 .- 24 . (canceled) 
     
     
         25 . A collection device for inactivation and dry storage of a biological sample containing an RNA virus without degradation of viral RNA, the device comprising:
 providing a non-dissolvable, dry, solid matrix incorporated with a composition, the composition comprising at least one protein denaturant, at least one acid or acid-titrated buffer reagent impregnated therein in a dry state;   a frame for holding the dry solid matrix; and   a storage sleeve capable of encasing the frame and dry solid matrix after collection of the sample.   
     
     
         26 . The device of  claim 25 , wherein the acid comprises acetic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, Tris(2-carboxyethyl) phosphine-hydrochloric acid (TCEP-HCl), oxidized Tris(2-carboxyethyl) phosphine-hydrochloric acid (TCEP-O—HCl), sulfuric acid, nitric acid, vanillic acid, 3-(N-morpholino)propanesulfonic acid or combinations thereof. 
     
     
         27 . The device of  claim 25 , where the composition further comprises a UV protectant, a free-radical scavenger, a chelator, a reducing agent or combinations thereof. 
     
     
         28 . The device of  claim 27 , where the composition further comprises an RNase inhibitor. 
     
     
         29 . The device of  claim 28  wherein the RNase inhibitor comprises at least one of a triphosphate salt, pyrophosphate salt, vanadyl ribonucleoside complex (VCR), or sodium pyrophosphate. 
     
     
         30 . The device of  claim 27 , wherein the reducing agent is selected from the group consisting of dithiothreitol (DTT), 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME), tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP), tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine hydrochloride (TCEP-HCl) and a combination thereof.