How to properly store chemiluminescence reagents during a sudden drop in temperature?

With the arrival of winter, the sudden drop in temperature has become a real challenge faced by many laboratories. For researchers and technicians who rely on chemiluminescence reagents for detection, research, and diagnosis, the stability of the reagents directly affects the accuracy and reproducibility of experimental results. Improper storage conditions may lead to a decrease in reagent activity, an increase in background, or even failure, directly affecting project progress and data reliability. How to ensure that these sensitive reagents remain in optimal condition during low temperature seasons has become an important part of laboratory management.

Understanding the storage sensitivity of chemiluminescent reagents

The core of chemiluminescence reagents lies in their precise chemical reaction design, which can generate light signals under specific conditions. Most of these reagents are extremely sensitive to temperature fluctuations, and low temperatures may cause certain components to precipitate or crystallize, disrupting uniformity; Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can accelerate protein denaturation or compound degradation. Some solid substrates or buffers, although relatively stable, still need to maintain their chemical properties unchanged in a suitable environment. Therefore, establishing a systematic winter storage strategy is not only about protecting reagents, but also responsible for the quality of experiments.

System Management: Hierarchical Storage and Temperature Monitoring

Effective storage begins with clear classification. Firstly, it is necessary to distinguish according to the conditions specified in the reagent instructions: which ones require refrigeration at 2-8 ℃, which ones require deep freezing at -20 ℃ or even -80 ℃, and which ones only need to be stored at room temperature and away from light. It is recommended that the laboratory establish a reagent file and label the storage requirements for each batch of chemiluminescent reagents entering the warehouse to avoid confusion.

For reagents that require refrigeration, ensure that the refrigerator temperature remains constant within the recommended range, avoid being close to the inner wall or cold source outlet, and prevent local supercooling. For deep freezing reagents, the space should be well planned and the frequency of opening doors should be reduced to maintain temperature stability. It is worth emphasizing that any reagent should avoid repeated freezing and thawing, and can be divided into small portions for use to reduce activity loss.

Temperature monitoring is a crucial step in winter storage. It is recommended to place calibrated thermometers or use continuous recorders in storage devices, regularly check and keep records. When encountering power outages or equipment failures, these records can provide a basis for evaluating the status of reagents. If the reagent briefly leaves the temperature controlled environment, reference should be made to the supplier's guidelines to determine whether it can continue to be used.

Daily operation: Access standards and stability maintenance

Proper daily operations are equally important. Before using refrigerated or frozen reagents, they can be transferred to room temperature equilibrium in advance to avoid the influence of condensed water. For products that are sensitive to moisture, it is even more necessary to operate quickly in a dry environment. Return to its original position immediately after use to shorten the time it takes to disengage from the temperature control.

The laboratory environment may be dry in winter, so it is important to seal and prevent moisture. At the same time, although the influence of light may weaken in winter, the principle of avoiding light storage should still be adhered to, especially for light sensitive compounds. In addition, regularly organize inventory and follow the first in, first out principle to ensure that reagents are used within their validity period

Emergency preparedness and risk prevention

Extreme weather conditions may cause unexpected power outages or equipment malfunctions. Laboratories should develop emergency plans, such as equipping backup power sources and stocking up on dry ice or cold storage agents in advance for emergency transfer of reagents. Important reagents can be stored in different storage devices to reduce risks.

Winter storage also requires attention to the transportation process. When receiving express delivery, promptly check the insulation material and temperature indicator card inside the packaging to confirm that the reagent has not experienced temperature fluctuations beyond the range during transportation. If any problems are found, immediately communicate with the supplier.

Hubei Xindesheng Material Technology Co., Ltd. specializes in the production of chemiluminescence reagents such as luminol and acridine ester. Our professional experimental equipment and technical personnel not only provide high-quality reagents, but also are committed to providing customers with comprehensive storage solutions and technical guidance. If you need related products in the near future, please feel free to contact me!