Cryopreservation device with integrated tracking device chamber

Abstract

The present invention provides a cryopreservation device comprising an integrated tracking device chamber. The tracking device can be an RFID tag that can be disposed in the cryopreservation device as part of a procedure for vitrification of biological samples. The cryopreservation device maintains its integrity and firmly holds the RFID tag within the chamber both under ambient conditions when collecting the sample and under liquid nitrogen in which the sample is stored. A cryopreservation device with an integrated tracking device chamber can provide individual biological samples with their own tracking devices for monitoring during cryopreservation.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (cross reference) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 136,419, filed April 19, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of cryopreservation devices for biological samples, and more particularly to devices that can be remotely identified by RFID technology. [Background technology]

[0003] Cryopreservation is practiced in life sciences to halt biological activity in living cells for extended periods of time. The technique used for cryopreservation is vitrification.

[0004] Vitrification involves converting a solution containing a biological specimen, such as an oocyte or embryo, into a glassy, ​​amorphous solid, free of any crystalline structure, followed by very rapid cooling. One of the major challenges of this method is preventing intracellular ice crystal formation within the oocyte or embryo. Therefore, the first step is to dehydrate the cells as much as possible using a cryoprotectant-containing fluid called a "vitrification medium." The biological specimen is then rapidly cooled by immersion in a cryogenic fluid, such as liquid nitrogen (LN2). With the appropriate combination of cooling rate and cryoprotectant concentration, the intracellular water is converted into a solid, harmless glass (vitreous) state, rather than into an ordered, harmful crystalline ice state. Vitrification can be described as a rapid increase in fluid viscosity that traps water molecules in a random arrangement. However, vitrification medium can contain a relatively high content of cryoprotectants that are toxic to cells outside of the vitreous state. As a result, the exposure time of cells to the vitrification medium during dehydration and warming must be carefully controlled to avoid cell damage, and accordingly, it is desirable to cool the specimen as quickly as possible.

[0005] The CRYOLOCK cryopreservation device was developed as a versatile, simple, and efficient vitrification device for preserving, cryopreserving, and storing oocytes or embryos in liquid nitrogen. It is a cryopreservation device that allows samples to be rapidly cooled and stored without direct contact with sterile liquid nitrogen (LN2). The CRYOLOCK cryopreservation device is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0129997, published June 23, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] The CryoLock cryopreservation device uses a combination of semi-flexible plastic and functional design, including a specific shape and closing gap, to seal the sample within the cryopreservation device at room temperature and maintain the seal as the cryopreservation device and sample are cooled to the temperature of liquid nitrogen.

[0007] Because storing samples in liquid nitrogen is expensive, multiple samples are stored in a given cryopreservation tank. Because entire cryopreservation devices are stored in the cryopreservation tank, the size of each cryopreservation device and the packaging characteristics of such devices affect the space required, which in turn affects storage costs. In addition to simple space issues, quality control and audits must be performed to track the identity and preservation status of each sample over time. If cryopreservation devices must be removed from the cryopreservation device during quality audits, temperature changes can affect the long-term viability of the samples.

[0008] It should be possible to identify each sample / device within the cryopreservation tank without removing the cryopreservation device from the cryopreservation tank. It should maintain or reduce the size of cryopreservation devices that are self-identifying, especially at the single biological specimen level. The ability to identify each sample / device should be maintained throughout the lifecycle of each specimen's collection, storage, retrieval, and use.

[0009] Incorporating an RFID tag into each cryopreservation device presents several challenges. First, the portion of the device that holds the biological specimen must be sterilized, typically with gamma radiation, which can impair the RFID tag's functional capabilities. Furthermore, the RFID tag's incorporation must fit into the workflow during the vitrification process. This means that the RFID tag must be firmly bonded to a portion of the cryopreservation device before the biological specimen is collected, due to the necessarily short time between specimen collection and immersion in liquid nitrogen. The RFID tag must be securely held by the cryopreservation device at ambient conditions and liquid nitrogen temperatures and must not damage the cryopreservation device during such large temperature changes. The increase in size of the cryopreservation device capable of holding the RFID tag must be minimized. Ideally, the RFID tag could be secured to the cryopreservation device without the need for adhesives that are affected by low temperatures. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174545 Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cryopreservation device capable of holding a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is provided. The cryopreservation device includes: (a) an elongated stick including an RFID portion, an elongated body, and a sample collection tip; and (b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip. When the cap is removably attached to the elongated stick, the cap can enclose the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber. The RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID portion can hold an RFID tag.

[0012] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag. The cryopreservation device includes: (a) an elongate rod including an RFID portion, an elongate body, a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, and a sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss; and (b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss. When the cap is removably attached to the elongate rod, the cap can enclose the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss within the hollow chamber. The RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID portion can hold an RFID tag. The RFID portion includes: (a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; (b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; and (c) a locking mechanism abutting the periphery of the RFID opening.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag. The cryopreservation device includes: (a) an elongated rod including an RFID portion, an elongated body, a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongated body, and a sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss; and (b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss. When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the cap can enclose the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber. The RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip and capable of holding an RFID tag. The RFID portion includes: (a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; (b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; and (c) a locking mechanism abutting the outer periphery of the RFID opening. The elongated rod is made of a single piece of plastic. The RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod. The RFID chamber includes a cylindrical chamber formed from prismatic plastic, and the RFID tag is cylindrical. The rectangular pillar has a first vertical slit and a second vertical slit, each of which starts from the RFID opening. The first vertical slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second vertical slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber. The first vertical slit separates the RFID chamber. The first longitudinal slit is across the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit.The locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the inside of the RFID opening.

[0014] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a process for vitrifying a biological specimen, the process comprising the steps of: a) obtaining a cryopreservation device of any of the above embodiments; b) obtaining a liquid nitrogen-resistant RFID tag; c) placing the RFID tag in an RFID chamber, reading the RFID tag, and associating the RFID tag with the biological specimen; e) adding a vitrification mixture to dehydrate the biological specimen; f) collecting the dehydrated biological specimen on an elongated rod; g) encapsulating the dehydrated biological specimen with a cap secured to the elongated rod; and h) placing the cryopreservation device in liquid nitrogen. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] The present invention is shown and described herein with reference to various drawing figures, in which like reference numerals represent like method steps and / or system components, respectively.

[0016] [Figure 1a] FIG. 1 is a side view of a cryopreservation device according to Comparative Example 1. [Figure 1b] FIG. 1b is a cross-sectional view of the cryopreservation device taken along line AA in FIG. 1a. [Figure 1c] FIG. 1b is a side view of the cryopreservation device in FIG. 1a with the cap removed. [Figure 1d] FIG. 1c is a cross-sectional view of the cryopreservation device taken along line AA. [Figure 2a] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a cryopreservation device according to Example 1. [Figure 2b] 2b is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a along line AA. [Figure 2c] FIG. 2b is an opposite side view (rotated 180 degrees along the longitudinal axis) of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a. [Figure 2d] FIG. 2b is an isometric view of the RFID portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a. [Figure 3a]FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the cryopreservation device of Example 2. [Figure 3b] 3b is a top view of the RFID portion and end of the elongate wand of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3a. [Figure 3c] 3b is an isometric view of the RFID portion and end of the elongate wand of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3a. [Figure 4a] FIG. 10 is a side view of the cryopreservation device of Comparative Example 2. [Figure 4b] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of the cryopreservation device shown in FIG. 4a. [Figure 4c] FIG. 4b is a detailed cross-sectional view of the RFID part of the cryopreservation device shown in FIG. 4a. [Figure 5a] FIG. 10 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a cryopreservation device according to Example 3. [Figure 5b] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5a. [Figure 5c] FIG. 5b is a detailed cross-sectional view of the RFID portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5a. [Figure 6a] FIG. 10 is a side view of another embodiment of a cryopreservation device with an end-mounted RFID section and a plug for a locking mechanism. [Figure 6b] 6b is a cross-sectional view of the RFID portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6a without an RFID tag and with the plug removed. [Figure 6c] 6b is a cross-sectional view of the RFID portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6a, with the RFID tag securely embedded within the RFID chamber. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cryopreservation device with an end-mounted RFID unit. [Figure 8a] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cryopreservation device with a removable RFID portion. [Figure 8b] 8b is a cross-sectional view of the detachable RFID portion and elongate body of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8a, with the detachable RFID portion and elongate body removed. [Figure 8c] 10 is a cross-sectional view of another connection between a cryopreservation device and a corresponding removable RFID portion. FIG. [Figure 9a] FIG. 10 is a side view of another embodiment of a cryopreservation device with a top-mounted RFID unit. [Figure 9b] It is a cross-sectional view of the RFID unit of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9a. [Figure 9c] It is a detailed top view of the RFID unit of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9a. [Figure 9d] It is a different cross-sectional view of the RFID unit of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9c.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] One embodiment of the present invention provides a cryopreservation device capable of holding a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The cryopreservation device includes: a) an RFID unit, an elongated rod including an elongated body and a sample collection tip; and b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip. When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip can be enclosed within the hollow chamber. The RFID unit is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID unit is capable of holding the RFID tag.

[0018] The present invention can be more easily understood by referring to the following detailed description of the present invention related to the accompanying drawings that form a part of the present disclosure. The present invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and / or shown herein, and the technical terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only for specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the claimed invention. It should be understood that any and all patents and other publications specified herein are incorporated by reference as described herein.

[0019] Also, as used in this specification, including the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plurals, and reference to a particular value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value and / or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values ​​are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

[0020] It should be understood that the recitation of one or more method steps does not exclude the presence of additional method steps before or after the listed steps in combination, or intervening method steps between those explicitly identified steps. Also, the lettering of method steps or ingredients is a general means of identifying separate activities or ingredients, unless otherwise noted, and the listed lettering may be arranged in any order. A method step preceded by the term "optionally" may or may not occur.

[0021] As used herein, the term "and / or," when used with a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items can be used by itself, or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, the composition can contain A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in combination, A and C in combination, B and C in combination, or A, B, and C in combination.

[0022] The RFID tag is not particularly limited as long as it is compatible with liquid nitrogen. Being compatible with liquid nitrogen allows the RFID tag to function as intended both under ambient conditions and at the temperature of liquid nitrogen when immersed in liquid nitrogen. An RFID tag functions as intended if it can receive an interrogation from an RFID reader and return the RFID tag's unique identification information. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is an item comprising an integrated circuit, an antenna, and a substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate comprises silicon and / or carbon fiber.

[0023] In some embodiments, the cryopreservation device further comprises a frusto-conical boss extending from the first end of the elongate body. In some embodiments, the sample collection tip extends from the frusto-conical boss. In some embodiments, the cap, when removably attached to the elongate rod, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber. In some embodiments, the cap, when removably attached to the elongate rod, is capable of hermetically enclosing the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber.

[0024] In some embodiments, the RFID portion includes: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; b) an RFID opening capable of placing the RFID tag within the RFID chamber; and c) a locking mechanism that abuts the outer periphery of the RFID opening.

[0025] In some embodiments, the elongate wand is made from a unitary plastic. For example, the elongate wand is made from a unitary plastic when it is injection molded in a mold that forms the RFID portion, the elongate body, the sample collection tip, and any other components of the elongate wand. In another embodiment, the elongate wand is made from a unitary plastic when it is 3D printed.

[0026] In some embodiments, when an RFID tag is placed in an RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device is placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains in the RFID chamber and there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device. In some embodiments, when an RFID tag is placed in an RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device is placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains in the RFID chamber and there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device under 10x magnification.

[0027] In some embodiments, the shape of the RFID chamber corresponds to the shape of the RFID tag. In some embodiments, the shape of the RFID tag is a cube, rectangular parallelepiped, cone, cylinder, sphere, pyramid, or prism. In some embodiments, the shape of the RFID tag is a cylinder. In some embodiments, the RFID tag has a length of 4 mm to 12 mm. In some embodiments, the RFID tag has a diameter of 0.5 mm to 4 mm, 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm, or 0.5 mm to 3 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or 0.05 mm to 2.2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.8 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.4 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

[0028] By making the volume, width, and / or length of the RFID chamber larger than the RFID tag, the walls of the RFID chamber can contract when immersed in liquid nitrogen without the stiffer RFID tag cracking the walls of the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the volume of the RFID chamber is 1.01 times the volume of the RFID tag. In other non-limiting examples, the volume of the RFID chamber is at least 1.02 times, or 1.03 times, or 1.04 times, or 1.05 times, or 1.1 times the volume of the RFID tag. In some embodiments, the width of the RFID chamber perpendicular to the length of the elongate rod is at least 1.01 times, or 1.02 times, or 1.03 times, or 1.04 times, or 1.05 times, or 1.1 times the corresponding width of the RFID tag. In some embodiments, the length of the RFID chamber along the longitudinal direction of the elongate rod is at least 1.01 times, or 1.02 times, or 1.03 times, or 1.04 times, or 1.05 times, or 1.1 times the length of the RFID tag.

[0029] In some embodiments, the RFID opening is located at the end of an elongated rod. In some embodiments, the RFID chamber comprises a substantially cylindrical chamber formed from prismatic plastic. In some embodiments, the prismatic shape is a cube. In some embodiments, the prismatic shape is a hexagonal prism. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is substantially cylindrical, and the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each of which begins at the RFID opening. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit has a length that is 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second longitudinal slit has a length that is 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit is longer than the second longitudinal slit. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit is 、R FID chamber Located on the opposite side of the second vertical slit .

[0030] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the RFID portion in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are about 5 mm or less. In other embodiments, the dimensions of the RFID portion in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are about 4.5 mm, or 4.0 mm, or 3.5 mm, or 3.1 mm, or 3.0 mm, or 2.8 mm, or 2.6 mm, or 2.4 mm or less.

[0031] In some embodiments, the RFID opening is located along the length of the elongate rod. The RFID portion includes a locking mechanism that abuts the periphery of the RFID opening. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the periphery of the RFID opening. In some embodiments, the length of the RFID opening is less than the length of the RFID tag, and the locking mechanism includes a portion of the RFID portion that abuts the periphery of the RFID opening and covers the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the RFID tag may be mounted in the RFID chamber at an angle that allows a portion of the RFID tag to enter the portion of the RFID chamber beyond the RFID opening and push the remainder of the RFID tag through the RFID opening.

[0032] In some embodiments, the length of the RFID opening is along the longitudinal axis of the elongate rod, and the length of the RFID opening is less than the length of the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a circumferential flap that bends inward toward the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism further includes a protrusion connected to the circumferential flap that protrudes above the RFID opening. In some embodiments, at least one dimension of the RFID chamber that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is between 1.01% and 1.1% of the same dimension of the RFID tag.

[0033] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag. The cryopreservation device includes: (a) an elongate rod including an RFID portion, an elongate body, a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, and a sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss; and (b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss. When the cap is removably attached to the elongate rod, the cap can enclose the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss within the hollow chamber. The RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID portion can hold an RFID tag. The RFID portion includes: (a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; (b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; and (c) a locking mechanism abutting the periphery of the RFID opening.

[0034] It should be understood that the various aspects of the elongate rod, RFID portion, RFID tag, RFID chamber, RFID opening, RFID locking mechanism, construction of the elongate rod, shapes and sizes of the RFID tag, RFID chamber and RFID opening, relative sizes of aspects of the RFID chamber with respect to the RFID tag, placement of the RFID opening, any vertical slits along the walls of the RFID chamber, and dimensions of the RFID portion in the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, all described herein above, are also applicable to this embodiment.

[0035] In some embodiments, the elongate rod is made from a single piece of plastic. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is cylindrical and has a length of 6 mm to 12 mm and a diameter of 0.5 mm to 4 mm. In other non-limiting examples of RFID tags, the diameter is 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm, or 0.5 mm to 3 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or 0.05 mm to 2.2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.8 mm.

[0036] In some embodiments, the RFID opening is located at the end of an elongated rod. In some embodiments, the RFID chamber comprises a generally cylindrical chamber formed from a prismatic plastic. In some embodiments, the prismatic shape is a cube. In some embodiments, the prismatic shape is a hexagonal prism. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is generally cylindrical. In some embodiments, the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each beginning at the RFID opening. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises a ledge at least partially surrounding the RFID opening.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit has a length that is 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second longitudinal slit has a length that is 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit is longer than the second longitudinal slit. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit is 、R FID chamber Located on the opposite side of the second vertical slit .

[0038] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the RFID portion in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are about 5 mm or less. In other embodiments, the dimensions of the RFID portion in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are about 4.5 mm, or 4.0 mm, or 3.5 mm, or 3.1 mm, or 3.0 mm, or 2.8 mm, or 2.6 mm, or 2.4 mm or less.

[0039] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag. The cryopreservation device includes: (a) an elongated rod including an RFID portion, an elongated body, a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongated body, and a sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss; and (b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss. When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the cap can enclose the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss within the hollow chamber. The RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip and capable of holding an RFID tag. The RFID portion includes: (a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; (b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; and (c) a locking mechanism abutting the outer periphery of the RFID opening. The elongated rod is made of a single piece of plastic. The RFID opening is located at the distal end of the elongated rod. The RFID chamber includes a cylindrical chamber formed from prismatic plastic, and the RFID tag is cylindrical. The prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each of which starts from the RFID opening. The first longitudinal slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second longitudinal slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber. The first longitudinal slit 、R FID chamber Located on the opposite side of the second vertical slit The locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the inside of the RFID opening.

[0040] It should be understood that the various aspects of the elongate rod, RFID portion, RFID tag, RFID chamber, RFID opening, RFID locking mechanism, construction of the elongate rod, shapes and sizes of the RFID tag, RFID chamber and RFID opening, relative sizes of aspects of the RFID chamber with respect to the RFID tag, placement of the RFID opening, any vertical slits along the walls of the RFID chamber, and dimensions of the RFID portion in the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, all described herein above, are also applicable to this embodiment.

[0041] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a process for vitrifying a biological specimen, the process comprising the steps of: a) obtaining a cryopreservation device of any of the above embodiments; b) obtaining a liquid nitrogen-resistant RFID tag; c) placing the RFID tag in an RFID chamber, reading the RFID tag, and associating the RFID tag with the biological specimen; e) adding a vitrification mixture to dehydrate the biological specimen; f) collecting the dehydrated biological specimen on an elongated rod and encapsulating the dehydrated biological specimen with a cap secured to the elongated rod; and h) placing the cryopreservation device in liquid nitrogen.

[0042] It should be understood that the various aspects of the elongate rod, RFID portion, RFID tag, RFID chamber, RFID opening, RFID locking mechanism, construction of the elongate rod, shapes and sizes of the RFID tag, RFID chamber and RFID opening, relative sizes of aspects of the RFID chamber with respect to the RFID tag, placement of the RFID opening, any vertical slits along the walls of the RFID chamber, and dimensions of the RFID portion in the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, all described herein above, are also applicable to this embodiment.

[0043] In some embodiments, when placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, there are no visible cracks in the RFID portion.

[0044] The following is a non-limiting list of embodiments:

[0045] (Embodiment A1) an elongated wand including an RFID portion, an elongated body, and a sample collection tip; a cap having a hollow chamber of sufficient length to accommodate the sample collection tip; A cryopreservation device comprising: the cap, when removably attached to the elongate wand, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber; The cryopreservation device, wherein the RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID portion is capable of holding an RFID tag.

[0046] (Embodiment A2) A cryopreservation device as described in any one of embodiments A1, further comprising a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, the sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss, and the cap, when removably attached to the elongate rod, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss within the hollow chamber.

[0047] (Embodiment A3) A cryopreservation device as described in embodiment A1 or embodiment A2, wherein the RFID section includes: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding the RFID tag; b) an RFID opening capable of placing the RFID tag within the RFID chamber; and c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening.

[0048] (Embodiment A4) A cryopreservation device described in any one of embodiments A1 to A3, wherein the elongated rod is made from an integrated plastic, or the elongated rod is manufactured by injection molding a polymer resin into a single mold, or the elongated rod is manufactured by 3D printing.

[0049] (Embodiment A5) A cryopreservation device according to any one of embodiments A1 to A4, wherein the RFID tag can be placed within an RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device can be placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains within the RFID chamber, there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device, and / or there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device when viewed under 10x magnification.

[0050] (Embodiment A6) The cryopreservation device according to any one of embodiments A1 to A5, wherein the RFID tag is cylindrical, has a length of 4 mm to 12 mm, and a diameter of 0.5 mm to 4 mm, or 0.5 mm to 3 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.8 mm.

[0051] (Embodiment A7) A cryopreservation device according to any one of embodiments A3 to A6, wherein the RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod, the RFID chamber comprises a substantially cylindrical chamber formed of prismatic plastic, the RFID tag is substantially cylindrical, and the prismatic shape has a first vertical slit and a second vertical slit, each of which starts from the RFID opening.

[0052] (Embodiment A8) A cryopreservation device as described in embodiment A7, wherein the first vertical slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, the second vertical slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the first vertical slit is longer than the second vertical slit.

[0053] (Embodiment A9) The first vertical slit ,before The RFID chamber Located on the opposite side of the second vertical slit , A cryopreservation device according to embodiment A7 or A8.

[0054] (Embodiment A10) The cryopreservation device of any one of embodiments A3 to A9, wherein the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds an outer periphery of the RFID opening.

[0055] (Embodiment A11) A cryopreservation device according to any one of embodiments A1 to A10, wherein the dimensions of the RFID section in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are approximately 5 mm, or 4.5 mm, or 4.0 mm, or 3.5 mm, or 3.1 mm, or 3.0 mm, or 2.8 mm, or 2.6 mm or less.

[0056] (Embodiment A12) The cryopreservation device according to any one of embodiments A1 to A11, wherein the RFID section has dimensions of about 2.4 mm or less in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0057] (Embodiment A13) The cryopreservation device of any one of embodiments A3 to A6, wherein the length of the RFID opening is along the longitudinal axis of the elongate rod.

[0058] (Embodiment A14) The cryopreservation device of embodiment A13, wherein the length of the RFID opening is less than the length of the RFID chamber.

[0059] (Embodiment A15) The cryopreservation device of embodiment A13 or A14, wherein the locking mechanism includes a circumferential flap that bends inward toward the RFID chamber.

[0060] (Embodiment A16) The cryopreservation device of embodiment A15, wherein the locking mechanism further includes a protrusion connected to the circumferential flap and protruding above the RFID opening.

[0061] (Embodiment A17) The cryopreservation device of any one of embodiments A13 to A17, wherein a dimension of the RFID chamber perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is 1.01% to 1.1% of the same dimension of the RFID tag.

[0062] (Embodiment A18) The cryopreservation device according to any one of embodiments A13 to A17, wherein the dimensions of the RFID section in the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are approximately 3 mm or less or approximately 2.4 mm or less.

[0063] (Embodiment A19) The cryopreservation device of any one of embodiments A1 to A18, wherein the RFID tag is compatible with liquid nitrogen.

[0064] (Embodiment A20) The cryopreservation device of any one of embodiments A1 to A19, comprising at least one circumferential notch.

[0065] (Embodiment A21) The cryopreservation device of any one of embodiments A1 to A20, wherein the cap, when removably attached to the elongate wand, is capable of hermetically enclosing the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber.

[0066] (Embodiment A22) A cryopreservation device according to any one of embodiments A3 to A6, A11, A12 or A17 to A21, wherein the RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod and the locking mechanism includes a plug capable of closing the RFID opening.

[0067] (Embodiment B1) a) obtaining a cryopreservation device according to any one of embodiments A1 to A20; b) acquiring an RFID tag; c) placing the RFID tag within the RFID chamber; d) reading the RFID tag and associating the RFID tag with the biological sample; e) adding a vitrification mixture to dehydrate the biological sample; f) collecting the dehydrated biological sample in a sample collection tip; g) removably attaching the cap to the elongate rod to enclose the dehydrated biological sample; h) placing the cryopreservation device in liquid nitrogen; 1. A process for vitrifying a biological specimen, comprising: [Example]

[0068] Comparative Example 1, Comparative Example 2, and Example 3 were each conducted using cryopreservation device rods injection-molded from polystyrene. Examples 1 and 2 were conducted using cryopreservation device rod prototypes. The prototypes were 3D printed from Digital ABS Plus (Statasys, Eden Prairie, MN). The rods of each device / prototype were made from a single, integrated piece of plastic. The rods in each example were designed with an RFID chamber to house a transponder RFID microchip tag (RFID tag). The RFID tag was cylindrical, 2 mm in diameter, and 12 mm long, and was available from Shenzhen Manruta Technology Co. Ltd., Guangdong, China. The sample collection tip of each of the comparative example and example rods was sealable with a cryo-lock cap (Biotech, Inc., Alpharetta, GA).

[0069] (Comparative Example 1) The cryopreservation device shown in FIGS. 1a-1d was designed and injection molded. Referring to FIGS. 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d, the cryopreservation device 10 includes an elongated rod 12 and a cap 14. The elongated rod includes an RFID portion 16, a circumferential notch 18a, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the boss 22. The cap 14 includes a circumferential notch 18b and an elongated hollow chamber 25 defined along the longitudinal axis of the cap 14 and sized to accommodate the sample collection tip 24 and the frustoconical boss 22. The circumferential notches 18a, 18b, located near the end of the cap 14 and the distal end of the elongated rod 12, allow for grasping the cryopreservation device 10 with forceps (not shown), facilitating manipulation of the cryopreservation device 10 in various temperature environments. RFID section 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID terminal region 30. RFID terminal region 30 is located further from elongate body 20 along the longitudinal axis than RFID transition region 26, and RFID chamber 28 is located between RFID terminal region 30 and RFID transition region 26. RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag (not shown). As such, RFID chamber 28 is cylindrically shaped with a circular opening 32. FIGS. 1c and 1d are side and cross-sectional views of cryopreservation device 10 shown in FIG. 1, with cap 14 removed to reveal the entire elongate rod 12.

[0070] The RFID tag was manually inserted into the RFID chamber 28 through the opening 32 under ambient conditions. The RFID tag was securely held within the RFID chamber 28, and the chip could not be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. The elongated rod 12 was immersed in liquid nitrogen for approximately two minutes. The elongated rod 12 was inspected upon removal from the liquid nitrogen. The RFID chamber 28 had several cracks visible to the naked eye.

[0071] Example 1 The elongated rod 12 of the cryopreservation device shown in Figures 2a-2d was designed and prototyped using 3D printing. Referring to Figures 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, the elongated rod 12 includes an RFID section 16, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from the narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The RFID section 16 includes a tapered RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID terminal region 30. The RFID terminal region 30 is located farther from the elongated body 20 along the longitudinal axis than the RFID transition region 26, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID terminal region 30 and the tapered RFID transition region 26. The RFID transition region 26 is tapered because the RFID chamber 28 has a larger cross-section than the elongated body 20. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag (not shown).

[0072] The RFID tag was manually inserted into the RFID chamber 28 through opening 32, which was sized to allow the RFID tag to pass through and enter the RFID chamber 28. A locking mechanism 34 defined the opening 32. The locking mechanism 34, shown in FIGS. 2a and 2d, ensures that the RFID tag (not shown) remains within the RFID chamber 28 throughout processing and storage of the elongated rod 12. The RFID tag was inserted at an angle that allowed a portion of the RFID tag to pass beyond the RFID opening 32 and enter the portion of the RFID chamber 28 adjacent to the RFID terminal region 30. As the RFID tag was pushed into the RFID chamber 28, flaps 36a and 36b bent downward and rested on top of the RFID tag once it was fully inserted into the RFID chamber 28. As shown in FIG. 2c, openings 37a and 37b were spaced longitudinally along the outer edge of the RFID chamber 28, with openings 32 located on opposite sides perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated rod 12. The RFID tag is securely held within the RFID chamber 28, and the chip cannot be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. The elongated rod 12 was immersed in liquid nitrogen. After being inserted in liquid nitrogen for approximately 2 minutes and then returned to ambient conditions, the RFID portion 16 showed no signs of cracking. The RFID portion 16 was observed under 10x magnification, and still no signs of cracking were observed.

[0073] Example 2 The cryopreservation device elongate rod 12 shown in Figures 3a-3c was designed and a prototype was 3D printed. The elongate rod 12 includes a notch 18a, an RFID portion 16, an elongate body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongate body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from the narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The RFID portion 16 includes a tapered RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID terminal region 30. The RFID terminal region 30 is located further from the elongate body 20 along the longitudinal axis than the RFID transition region 26, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID terminal region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag. The tapered RFID transition region 26 is designed to transition from the smaller cross section of the elongated body 20 to the larger cross section of the RFID portion 16, allowing the placement side of the elongated body 22 and RFID portion 16 to be straight and easier to handle.

[0074] The RFID tag was manually inserted into the RFID chamber 28 through the opening 32 under ambient conditions. The RFID tag was inserted at an angle that allowed a portion of the RFID tag to extend beyond the RFID opening 32 and into the portion of the RFID chamber 28 adjacent to the RFID terminal area 30. The locking mechanism 34 included a circular tag 39 that curved downward when the RFID tag 38 was loaded into the RFID chamber 28 and positioned above the RFID tag 38 after it was fully inserted into the RFID chamber 28. The locking mechanism 34 held the RFID tag 38 within the RFID chamber 28. The RFID tag was securely held within the RFID chamber 28, and the RFID tag could not be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. The elongated rod 12 was immersed in liquid nitrogen. After being immersed in liquid nitrogen for approximately two minutes and then returned to ambient conditions, the RFID portion 16 showed no signs of cracking. The RFID portion 16 was observed at 10x magnification, but still no signs of cracking were observed.

[0075] (Comparative Example 2) The elongated rod 12 was designed and injection molded. Referring to Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c, the elongated rod includes an RFID portion 16, a circumferential notch 18a, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The circumferential notch 18a is located between the end of the elongated body 20 distal to the sample collection tip 24 and the RFID portion 16. The RFID portion 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID terminal region 30. The RFID terminal region 30 is located further from the elongated body 20 along the longitudinal axis than the RFID transition region 26, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID terminal region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag (not shown). Thus, RFID chamber 28 is cylindrically shaped, with opening 32 being circular. One of two longitudinal slits 40a is shown in FIG. 4a, and both longitudinal slits 40a, 40b are shown in FIGS. 4b and 4c. In this comparative example, the longitudinal slits are the same size, and each slit begins at RFID opening 32 and removes approximately 90% of the length of the wall of RFID chamber 28. FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of elongated rod 12 shown in FIG. 4a, and FIG. 4c is a detailed cross-sectional view of RFID portion 16 of elongated rod 12 shown in FIG. 4a. The locking mechanism includes "elbows" or ledges 42a, 42b on at least a portion of the wall of RFID chamber 28 closest to RFID opening 32.

[0076] The RFID tag was inserted into the RFID chamber 28 through the opening 32 under ambient conditions. The RFID tag could not be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. However, the RFID tag was not securely held within the RFID chamber 28; the RFID tag could be removed from the RFID chamber 28 simply by moving the walls of the RFID chamber 28 outward. The elongated rod 12 with the RFID tag inside the RFID chamber 28 was immersed in liquid nitrogen. After being inserted into liquid nitrogen for approximately two minutes and then returned to ambient conditions, the RFID portion 16 showed no signs of cracking. The RFID portion 16 was observed under 10x magnification, and still no signs of cracking were observed. This design addressed only one of the two necessary criteria; while the RFID portion 16 did not crack, the RFID tag was not securely held in place during cryopreservation processing.

[0077] Example 3 The elongated rod 12 was designed and injection molded. Referring to Figures 5a, 5b, and 5c, the elongated rod includes an RFID portion 16, a circumferential notch 18a, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The circumferential notch 18a is located between the end of the elongated body 20 distal to the sample collection tip 24 and the RFID portion 16. The RFID portion 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID terminal region 30. The RFID terminal region 30 is located further from the elongated body 20 along the longitudinal axis than the RFID transition region 26, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID terminal region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag (not shown). In this way, the RFID chamber 28 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the opening 32 is circular. 5 a, both vertical slits 40a and 40b are shown in FIG. 5 b. 5In this embodiment, the vertical slits are different sizes, with vertical slit 40a removing approximately 50% of the length of the wall of RFID chamber 28, while vertical slit 40b removing approximately 90% of the length of the wall of RFID chamber 28. 5 b is a figure 5 1 is a cross-sectional view of the elongated rod 12 shown in FIG. 5 c is a figure 5 1 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the RFID portion 16 of the elongate wand 12 shown in FIG. 1. The locking mechanism includes "elbows" or ledges 42a, 42b on at least a portion of the wall of the RFID chamber 28 closest to the RFID opening 32.

[0078] The RFID tag was inserted into the RFID chamber 28 through the opening 32 under ambient conditions. The RFID tag was securely held within the RFID chamber 28, and the chip could not be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. Unlike Comparative Example 2, the RFID tag could not be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by moving the walls of the RFID chamber 28 outward. The elongated rod 12 was immersed in liquid nitrogen. After being immersed in liquid nitrogen for approximately 2 minutes and then returned to ambient conditions, the RFID portion 16 showed no signs of cracking. The RFID portion 16 was observed under 10x magnification, and still no signs of cracking were observed.

[0079] 6a shows another embodiment of a sealed cryopreservation device 10 including an elongate wand 12, a cap 14 (not shown), and an end-mounted RFID portion 16. The elongate wand 12 includes an RFID portion 16, an elongate body 20, a frusto-conical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongate body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frusto-conical boss 22. The RFID portion 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID compartment 28, and an RFID terminal region 30. An RFID plug 44 is detachably attached to the RFID portion 16. The RFID terminal region 30 is located further from the elongate body 20 along the longitudinal axis than the RFID transition region 26, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID terminal region 30 and the RFID transition region 26.

[0080] Figures 6b and 6c are detailed cross-sectional views of the RFID section 16 of the embodiment shown in Figure 6a. Figure 6b is a cross-sectional view of the empty RFID chamber 28 with the RFID tag 38 and RFID plug 44 separated from the RFID section 16. Figure 6c is a cross-sectional view of the RFID tag 38 positioned within the RFID chamber 28 and secured by the RFID plug 44. In this embodiment, the RFID chamber 28 is slightly oversized relative to the RFID tag 38 to allow for heat shrinkage of the RFID tag 38 when the cryopreservation device is immersed in liquid nitrogen. The RFID plug 44 serves the same purpose as the locking mechanism 34 shown in the embodiment of Figures 2a-2d and 3a-3c. The RFID plug 44 closes the RFID opening 32, thereby retaining the RFID tag 38 within the RFID chamber 28 throughout the cryopreservation device's processing and storage.

[0081] 7 illustrates another embodiment of a cryopreservation device 10 including an elongate rod 12, a cap 14 (not shown), and a separate end-mounted RFID portion 16. The elongate rod 12 includes an RFID portion 16, a circumferential notch 18a, an elongate body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongate body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the boss 22. The circumferential notch 18a is located between the end of the elongate body 20 distal to the sample collection tip 24 and the RFID portion 16. The RFID portion 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID terminal region 30 including an RFID plug 44. The RFID terminal region 30 is located farther from the elongate body 20 along the longitudinal axis than the RFID transition region 26, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID terminal region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. In FIG. 7, the RFID portion 16 is generally tapered such that its cross section increases with increasing distance from the elongated body 20 .

[0082] 8a and 8b illustrate another embodiment of a cryopreservation device 10, comprising an elongated rod 12 and a cap 14 (not shown). The elongated rod 12 includes a detachable component 50, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The detachable component 50 includes an RFID portion 16, a notch 18a, and an RFID connection element 52. The elongated body 20 includes a mating body connection element 54. The RFID connection element 52 includes a transition region 56 and an RFID locking mechanism 58. The transition region 56 is distal to the elongated body 20, and the RFID locking mechanism 58 is located between the transition region 56 and the elongated body 20 when the detachable component 50 is attached to the elongated body 20. The RFID locking mechanism 58 includes a hollow chamber 60 with notches 62a and 62b toward its end closest to the transition region 56. The compliant body connecting element 54 is located on the elongate body 20 distal to the sample collection tip 24 and includes a solid object 64 and extensions 66a, 66b. The extensions 66a and 66b are located toward the end of the compliant body connecting element 54 distal to the elongate body 20. The solid object 64 is sized to fit into the chamber 60 and the extensions 66a and 66b are sized to fit into the notches 62a and 62b when the detachable component 50 is attached to the elongate body 20.

[0083] FIG. 8c illustrates another locking mechanism for the RFID connection element 52 for the detachable component 50 and compatible body connection element 54 shown in FIG. 8b. The detachable connection element 50 includes an RFID portion 16 and an RFID connection element 70. The RFID connection element 70 includes a solid body 72 and extensions 74a, 74b. The RFID transition region 26 is distal to the elongate body 20, and the solid body 72 is located between the RFID transition region 26 and the elongate body 20 when the detachable component 50 is attached to the elongate body 20. The extensions 74a, 74b are located toward the end of the solid body 72 distal to the RFID transition region 26. The compatible body locking mechanism 76 includes a hollow chamber 78 with notches 80a, 80b. When detachable component 50 is attached to elongate body 20, mating body locking mechanism 76 is sized to accommodate solid object 72 and notches 80a and 80b are sized to accommodate extensions 74a and 74b.

[0084] 9a shows another embodiment of a cryopreservation device 10 including an elongated wand 12, a cap 14 (not shown), and another embodiment of an end-mounted RFID portion 16. The elongated wand 12 includes a notch 18a, an RFID portion 16, an elongated body 20, a frusto-conical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frusto-conical boss 22. The RFID portion 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID terminal region 30.

[0085] Figures 9b, 9c, and 9d are detailed cross-sectional views of the RFID portion 16 of the embodiment shown in Figure 9a. Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view showing the RFID tag 38 positioned within the RFID chamber 28. The locking mechanism 34 continues across the entire RFID chamber 28, and when the RFID tag 38 is loaded into the RFID chamber 28, the edges of the RFID tag 38 are not visible because the locking mechanism is located over both ends of the RFID tag 38. Figure 9c is a top view showing the locking mechanism 34 defining the opening 32 above the RFID chamber 28. When the RFID tag 38 is fully inserted into the RFID chamber 28, parts 82a and 82b of the locking mechanism extend above the RFID tag 38. The locking mechanism parts 82a and 82b can retain the RFID tag 38 within the RFID chamber 28.

[0086] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described herein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples thereof, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other embodiments and examples may perform a similar function and / or achieve similar results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of the present invention and are intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

1. a) an elongate wand comprising an RFID portion, an elongate body and a sample collection tip; b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate said sample collection tip; A cryopreservation device comprising: the cap, when removably attached to the elongate wand, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber; the RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip; The RFID unit a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening; Including, a cryopreservation device, wherein the RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod, the RFID chamber comprises a substantially cylindrical chamber formed of prismatic plastic, the RFID tag is substantially cylindrical, the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each slit originating from the RFID opening, and the first longitudinal slit is located on the opposite side of the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit.

2. 2. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, further comprising a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, the sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss, and the cap, when removably attached to the elongate rod, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss within the hollow chamber.

3. 10. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, wherein the elongated rod is made from a monolithic plastic.

4. 10. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, wherein when the RFID tag is placed within the RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device is placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains within the RFID chamber and there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device.

5. 2. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, wherein the RFID tag has a length of 4 mm to 12 mm and a diameter of 0.5 mm to 4 mm.

6. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, wherein the first vertical slit has a length that is 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, the second vertical slit has a length that is 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the first vertical slit is longer than the second vertical slit.

7. The cryopreservation device of claim 1 , wherein the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds a periphery of the RFID opening.

8. 2. The cryopreservation device according to claim 1, wherein the RFID unit has dimensions of approximately 3 mm or less in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

9. 2. The cryopreservation device according to claim 1, wherein the RFID unit has dimensions of approximately 2.4 mm or less in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

10. a) an elongate wand including an RFID portion, an elongate body, a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, and a sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss; b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss; A cryopreservation device comprising: the cap, when removably attached to the elongate wand, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber; the RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip; the RFID unit is capable of holding an RFID tag; The dimensions of the RFID unit in each of the x-direction and y-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are approximately 3 mm or less, The RFID unit a) an RFID chamber capable of holding the RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening; Including, a cryopreservation device, wherein the RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod, the RFID chamber comprises a substantially cylindrical chamber formed of prismatic plastic, the RFID tag is substantially cylindrical, the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each slit originating from the RFID opening, and the first longitudinal slit is located on the opposite side of the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit.

11. 11. The cryopreservation device of claim 10, wherein the elongated rod is made from a monolithic plastic and the RFID tag is between 6 mm and 12 mm in length and between 0.5 mm and 4 mm in diameter.

12. The cryopreservation device of claim 10 , wherein the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the RFID opening.

13. the first vertical slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second vertical slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber; The cryopreservation device according to claim 10 , wherein the first vertical slit is longer than the second vertical slit.

14. The cryopreservation device according to claim 10 , wherein the RFID unit has dimensions of approximately 2.4 mm or less in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

15. 11. The cryopreservation device of claim 10, wherein the elongated rod is made from a monolithic plastic.

16. 11. The cryopreservation device of claim 10, wherein when the RFID tag is placed within the RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device is placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains within the RFID chamber and there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device.

17. a) an elongate wand including an RFID portion, an elongate body, a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, and a sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss; b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss; A cryopreservation device comprising: the cap, when removably attached to the elongate rod, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss within the hollow chamber; the RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip, the RFID portion being capable of holding an RFID tag, the RFID portion comprising: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding the RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening; Including, the elongate rod is made from a unitary plastic; the RFID aperture is located at the distal end of the elongated rod; The RFID chamber includes a cylindrical chamber formed of a prismatic plastic, the RFID tag is cylindrical, the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each slit originating from the RFID opening; the first vertical slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second vertical slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber; The first vertical slit is longer than the second vertical slit, the first vertical slit is located on the opposite side of the RFID chamber from the second vertical slit, The cryopreservation device, wherein the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the periphery of the RFID opening.

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