Global Sample Management
GLOBAL SAMPLE MANAGEMENT SERVICES
We deliver end-to-end global sample management and that protect sample integrity at every stage of drug development. From compliant collection and secure storage to real-time tracking, and global logistics, we support your bioanalytical, clinical, and preclinical programs. Our team actively monitors your samples 24/7, ensures seamless coordination across sites, and provides flexible storage options—so you can move forward confidently.
SAMPLE MANAGEMENT LOGISTICS
We manage fresh or frozen biological samples—including plasma, serum, CSF, PBMCs, biopsies, tissues, feces, and urine—under strict GxP guidelines. Our services include time-sensitive collections, secure transportation, long-term temperature-controlled storage, and flexible disposition. At every stage, we ensure full compliance, traceability, and sample integrity within our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
A dedicated team manages all critical reagents and reference standards with the same rigor. Each step is documented—ordering, receipt, inventory management in LIMS, controlled usage, and final disposal—to ensure accountability and assure product quality throughout the entire process.
Sample Reception and 5-Day Turnaround
When your timelines are critical, whether for single-ascending dose (SAD) or multiple-ascending dose (MAD) clinical studies, we can expedite turnaround to keep your program on track. Fresh samples are prioritized upon arrival and immediately routed to our bioanalytical teams to ensure rapid processing and minimal delays in data delivery.
Specialized Sample Handling Capabilities
We offer comprehensive, specialized sample handling capabilities to support complex and sensitive workflows, including microsamples.
Our trained personnel handle hazardous materials in strict accordance with safety protocols. This includes cytotoxic substances and biocontainment level 2/3 samples. We have extensive experience working with biological matrices from both animal and human origin, such as whole blood, serum, plasma, CSF, PBMCs, tissues, feces, urine, and biopsies. Throughout the entire process, we maintain the full chain of custody and traceability to ensure sample integrity and regulatory compliance.
Post-Study Sample Management
Our post-study sample management services provide long-term value by ensuring sample availability for retesting, regulatory requests, or supplementary research. Secure, temperature-controlled storage options are available for long-term preservation, and flexible disposition pathways allow samples to be archived, returned, or destroyed in alignment with protocol and sponsor requirements.
Dedicated Sample Management Team and Study Designers
From protocol design to logistics planning, our team anticipate challenges, streamline workflows, and safeguards sample integrity. With deep expertise and hands-on coordination, they align scientific goals with operational execution—keeping studies on track and samples in optimal condition.
Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
Our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) tracks every sample movement, storage condition, and freeze/thaw cycle with full traceability. It transforms raw data into actionable information, supporting real-time decisions and maintaining data integrity across the study lifecycle. LIMS helps teams stay aligned, compliant, and efficient by connecting workflows and centralizing access.
Customizable Sample Collection Kits
We design customizable sample collection kits to match each study's unique protocol and timeline. Our team tailors the contents of the kit, labeling, and packaging to streamline site workflows and reduce errors. We also provide training to sites linked to kit usage, sample collection, and shipping.
Additionally, we build specialty kits to support complex studies with unique sampling needs. Whether it's handling rare matrices, advanced analytes, or non-standard collection methods, our team assembles and labels each kit with precision.
Specialty Kits
- Flow and ELIspot (e.g. PBMC)
- Tissues
- PCR
- Microsampling
- At-home kits
- Stabilizer addition
Multi-Clinical Site Management
We manage multi-site clinical studies with precision and consistency. Our team maintains real-time visibility, applies standardized procedures, and drives clear communication across all locations. From enrollment tracking to protecting sample integrity, we bring structure and oversight to every site—whether at an Altasciences clinical pharmacology unit or an affiliate site—to deliver high-quality data and meet regulatory requirements.
Schedule a call with one of our sample management experts!
STORING YOUR SAMPLES
Our storage units offer real-time monitoring of temperature and environmental conditions to safeguard sample integrity. Equipped with automatic backup generators, uninterrupted power is assured during outages. Additionally, with 24/7 emergency support from our technical team, any issues are promptly addressed to ensure your studies run smoothly.
Biostorage
We offer additional services to support your study needs, including destruction certificates, direct communication channels, comprehensive sample tracking, regulatory compliance documentation, archiving solutions, and management of controlled substances.
Sample Collection and Storage Conditions
We maintain specimen integrity with advanced storage solutions designed for precise temperature control. Samples are stored under optimal conditions, from cryogenic preservation at -196°C in liquid nitrogen to 22°C for room-temperature storage. Our facilities support refrigerated (4°C), standard frozen (-20°C), and ultra-low frozen (-80°C) environments. Specialized containers and carefully selected materials protect each sample, ensuring the preservation of quality for accurate and reliable results.
In addition, all matrices, reference standards, and critical reagents are electronically tracked and managed to ensure full traceability throughout each study. Access to reference standards is strictly controlled to maintain data integrity and compliance. It is essential that all supporting reagents are tracked, as they directly impact study performance and reproducibility.
Standardized Workflows for Risk Management
We streamline risk management through standardized workflows that promote consistency, accuracy, and control. By following proven protocols, our teams can confidently identify, assess, and address potential risks. These workflows support compliance, reduce variability, and strengthen decision-making.
PARTNER WITH US TODAY
Altasciences offers end-to-end bioanalytical services across discovery, preclinical, and clinical phases, with labs in the U.S. and Canada, including BSL-2 facilities for nonhuman primate and RG2 pathogen work. We support rapid interim analyses and high-throughput studies. Our experts use cutting-edge technologies (LC-MS/MS, ligand binding assays, flow cytometry, ELISpot, microsampling) and work with a wide range of matrices, including microsamples and dried blood spots. Every study phase is overseen by a dedicated expert, with clear, continuous communication to ensure compliant, efficient sample handling—from collection to storage.
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OUR COMPLETE RANGE OF BIOANALYTICAL SERVICES
Explore Altasciences' comprehensive bioanalytical services, designed to deliver accurate and reliable data at every stage of drug development. From method development to sample analysis to immunogenicity testing, gene therapy support, biomarker analysis, and more, our expertise facilitates seamless integration with your preclinical and clinical programs, supporting confident decision-making and regulatory success.
FAQ: ANSWERING YOUR KEY QUESTIONS ABOUT SAMPLE MANAGEMENT AND BIOSTORAGE
Here are some answers to our most-asked questions:
Compliance and Quality
- Are your facilities GxP compliant and regularly audited?
Yes, we have multiple sponsor and regulatory agency audits. - What measures are in place to maintain sample integrity and prevent cross-contamination?
Our processes are carefully monitored, and we ensure samples are handled at the respective temperature. Our storage equipment is maintained regularly and monitored 24 hours daily to ensure no temperature fluctuations
Traceability and Chain-of-Custody
- How do you ensure accurate and real-time tracking of samples throughout their lifecycle?
All samples and reagents are fully tracked and inventoried in our LIMS, and every handling transaction—from shipment receipt to final destruction—is securely documented.
Logistics and Transportation
- Can you manage international shipments, including import/export documentation and temperature-controlled logistics?
Yes, we have a Global Logistics department specialized in international shipments. They track all incoming shipments daily and ensure documentation is provided in a timely fashion to avoid delays at customs. We also work with various couriers that can replenish dry ice and add temperature monitoring devices. With our BioA Kit Services, we can also assist sites in coordinating shipments to Altasciences.
Storage Conditions and Capabilities
- What types of biological matrices can you store?
We can store and analyze all human, animal, and NHP matrices (e.g., plasma, PBMCs, tissues, urine, CSF, biopsies) - What temperature ranges and backup systems do you offer for storage?
We can store samples at room temperature down to -196 °C (liquid nitrogen). All our storage equipment is monitored 24/7 and backed by generators.
Integration With Study Activities
- Do you offer kitting, aliquoting, or sample preparation services?
We offer customized sample collection kits, including vacutainers, aliquoting tubes and lab manuals.
Data Access and Client Communication
- How can we access sample status and inventory reports?
Sample status and inventory reports are available on demand. Reports are generated from our LIMS and communicated promptly to our study team. - Is there a dedicated team for client support and rapid troubleshooting?
Our dedicated sample management team works closely with the Principal Investigator, Client Managers, and the business development team to report and communicate in a timely fashion any issues or discrepancies observed during our reception process. A close collaboration with the sponsor is established to resolve any issues quickly.
Security and Disaster Recovery
- What safeguards are in place for physical and digital security?
Our storage rooms have restricted access, and the equipment is locked and only accessible by our sample management custodians. - How do you ensure business continuity during a power failure or natural disaster?
Our facilities are safeguarded by backup generators and contingency agreements with local suppliers to ensure access to additional storage or power during emergencies.