Speci-Lock: Optimized Bio-Specimen Sealing Solution

ABSTRACT: The current COVID-19 crisis has highlighted issues with specimen container integrity. Multiple sources consulted have cited a COVID-19 RT-PCR specimen container failure rate of 2-2.5%. Calculated with the CDC’s record of more than 125 million administered RT-PCR COVID-19 tests, this means that approximately 2.5 – 3.1 million administered COVID-19 tests have been compromised. The need clearly exists for a lowcost, easily-fieldable, and robust specimen-containment solution that will provide positive feedback to the user upon proper closure, and withstand environmental changes encountered during transport. In response to this significant need, Luna Innovations and its collaborators propose the Speci-Lock System: A positive-feedback, aftermarket closure solution designed to interface with a wide variety of existing screwtop specimen containers. In addition to providing tactile and audible feedback of proper closure to a user, Speci-Lock is also designed with a pressure-sensitive gasket that increases sealing force with increased pressures experienced during transit. The overall purpose of the Speci-Lock program is to design, develop, produce, and commercialize a novel biological specimen containment solution which will eliminate containment failure due to user error and environmental conditions. To this end, Luna will utilize its network of consultants and collaborators to ensure that the program remains targeted from project initiation.