Sampling kit for collection, storage and transport of a tissue sample

Abstract

The present invention relates to sampling kits for the collection, storage and transport of a tissue sample of a test subject. The kit comprises a sampling tool having a tip section configured to collect the tissue sample. The collected tissue sample may be directly retained and stored in the tip section or may be transferred onto a tape element and stored thereon.

Description

[0001] Sampling kit for collection, storage and transport of a tissue sample

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of medical and diagnostic sampling devices. More particularly, the invention concerns a sampling kit for the collection, storage and transport of a tissue sample, especially a superficial skin tissue sample, from a test subject. The invention is applicable in dermatology, molecular diagnostics, and related fields where minimally invasive tissue sampling is required for subsequent in-vitro analysis.

[0003] Sampling of skin tissue is an established technique in dermatology and molecular diagnostics. Conventional approaches, however, present a number of limitations.

[0004] In standard practice, the tissue fragments obtained during sampling are immediately transferred into a separate container, typically a microcentrifuge tube, often with a liquid medium. This workflow requires additional handling steps, increases the risk of sample loss during transfer, and creates further risks for contamination.

[0005] Another technique is tape stripping, in which adhesive tapes are applied to the skin surface to remove superficial cells. This method relies on the adhesive properties of the tape, which may vary depending on subjects, skin sites, or environmental conditions. It can result in inconsistent sample yield and may fail to recover sufficient material for analysis. In addition, the tape surface itself is only designed for the removal of superficial skin cells and not for secure transport and long-term storage.

[0006] A curette is traditionally used in dermatology and other medical fields. It generally comprises a handle and a distal with a sharpened rim. When drawn tangentially across the skin surface, the sharp rim mechanically removes superficial layers of tissue. Curettes are widely used for therapeutic purposes, such as the removal of keratotic lesions, warts, or superficial neoplasms.

[0007] Therefore, generally curettes are not specifically designed as a sampling tool. The primary intent of the instrument is removal of tissue. As a result, while curettes can provide a reasonably predictable yield of tissue, they generally do not incorporate features for retaining or storing the sample after scraping. In standard practice, the scraped material must be transferred immediately into a separate container, such as a microcentrifuge tube, often together with a liquid medium for stabilization. This additional step complicates the workflow and increases the likelihood of sample loss or contamination.

[0008] Accordingly, there remains a need for a sampling kit that integrates collection, storage, and transport within a single tool or kit, thereby reducing the number of transfer steps, improving sample integrity, and simplifying use, especially outside of specialized clinical environments.

[0009] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a sampling kit, which may be referred to as a first sampling kit, for the collection, storage, and transport of a tissue sample of a test subject. The sampling kit comprises a sampling tool comprising a tip section, preferably with a concave geometry. The tip section is configured to collect the tissue sample from the test subject and to store the tissue sample for transport. The sampling kit further comprises a protective element configured to cover the tip section with the tissue sample stored in the tip section for transport.

[0010] The present invention can thus allow a tissue sample to be collected at a first location and transported to a second location that can be remote from the first location. The second location may, for example, be a clinical or diagnostic facility where the tissue sample can be processed, whereas the first location may be the home of the user or a point-of-care setting.

[0011] The present invention can be particularly suitable for use by untrained individuals. The use of the first sampling kit may require only two straightforward operations, namely collecting the tissue sample from the test subject and subsequently covering the tip section with the protective element for transport. These simple operations can be carried out without specialist training.

[0012] The sampling tool, and in particular the tip section, can function not only as a collection element but also as a storage element. This dual functionality can eliminate the need to transfer the collected sample into a separate container immediately after collection. As a result, the number of transfer steps between collection and processing can be reduced, thereby lowering the risk of loss of sample material that can otherwise occur during transfer.

[0013] Covering the tip section with the protective element after collection can further prevent environmental contamination, sample contamination, and sample loss during handling and transportation. The concave geometry of the tip section, if present, can additionally provide mechanical retention of the collected tissue fragments through friction, enabling the sample to be securely held in the tip section. This configuration can permit storage of the tissue sample for a period of several days even at ambient temperature, thereby allowing safe and reliable transport to a remote facility without the need for refrigeration. The sampling tool can be configured to collect the tissue sample from the test subject by scraping a surface of the test subject with the tip section. Scraping can denote mechanically dislodging at least on tissue fragment by drawing the tip section tangentially across the surface of the test subject. This action can shear off tissue fragment(s) which can then be directed into a concavity of the tip section. The tissue fragment(s) can then be retained within the concavity by surface friction and geometric confinement.

[0014] Concave geometry can refer to an inwardly curved surface of the tip section which can defines a recess, for example cup-shaped, spoon-shaped, or groove-like. This concavity can terminate in an edge and can serve both to dislodge tissue via scraping and to store the tissue sample within the recess.

[0015] The term "tissue sample" may interchangeably be referred to as "sample" for the sake of brevity. Moreover, the term "tissue sample" or "sample" may be used in the singular or plural. That is, the tissue sample may contain a single tissue fragment or it may contain multiple tissue fragments.

[0016] The tissue sample may comprise cells of the skin and / or cells in association with the skin.

[0017] As used herein, the term "tissue sample" can refer to epithelial and integumentary tissues, including but not limited to epidermis, mucosa (e.g., buccal mucosa, anal mucosa, vaginal mucosa, tongue epithelium), skin, skin appendages, nail material and cuticle.

[0018] After collection, the tissue sample can remain stored in the tip section. Storage can be in a dry state and may extend for several days, for example up to about five days, at ambient temperature. During storage and transport, the tip section containing the sample can be covered by the protective element, which can shield the tissue sample from contamination and accidental loss.

[0019] The sample stored in the tip section may be transported to a remote location, such as a clinical or diagnostic facility, for processing of the tissue sample. Throughout the document, processing of the tissue sample can refer to in-vitro analytical steps carried out on the sample, which may include, for example, nucleic acid extraction and amplification, protein or biomarker assays, immunoassays, histological staining, or automated processing within a cartridge-based diagnostic device.

[0020] Throughout the document, sample processing and sample analysis are used interchangeably. The sampling tool may be a curette. The tip section may therefore be shaped and dimensioned to allow curette-like sampling, whereby the scraping action can be performed with the tip section that can both remove tissue and gather it into the recess. Such a design can ensures efficient collection while limiting invasiveness.

[0021] The first sampling kit can further comprise a transport container configured to receive and contain at least the tip section of the sampling tool with the tissue sample stored in the tip section and with the tip section and the tissue sample covered by the protective element. The transport container may, for example, be shaped to accommodate the tip section or a detachable portion thereof, thereby providing a secure housing during transport.

[0022] The transport container may further include shipping means, such as an envelope, a box, a blister pack, or a vial, optionally with integrated shipping labels or barcodes. By including such shipping means, the kit is adapted for direct dispatch by the user to a remote processing facility without the need for intermediate repackaging. By integrating shipping means, the kit allows the tissue sample to be collected at one location, such as the home of the user, and sent directly to a second location, such as a clinical or diagnostic laboratory, in a manner that is streamlined, reliable, and compliant with transport requirements.

[0023] The protective element can be configured to form a seal with the sampling tool. The seal may be established between the protective element and the outer surface of the tip section, or between the protective element and an adjoining portion of the sampling tool, such as a handle section. The sealing engagement may be achieved, for example, by a friction fit, a snap-lock, a threaded connection, an elastomeric gasket, or an adhesive interface. By establishing a sealed environment around the collected tissue sample, the risk of external contaminants entering the tip section is further reduced, thereby preserving the integrity of the sample. The seal also minimizes the possibility of the tissue sample being dislodged or lost during handling and transport.

[0024] The sampling tool can be configured such that the tip section is detachable from a handle section of the sampling tool. Detachability may be achieved by a snap-fit, threaded connection, bayonet coupling, or other releasable engagement. This configuration can allow only the tip section containing the tissue sample to be transported, thereby avoiding the need to ship the entire sampling tool. The detachable tip can also be inserted directly into a processing device, for processing the tissue sample, which can reduce the number of transfers required before processing and increases the likelihood that the entire collected sample is processed. The protective element can comprise a cap configured to cover the tip section with the tissue sample in the tip section. The cap can thus be configured to fit over the tip section with the tissue sample retained therein. The cap may be rigid or semi-rigid and may be attached by friction, snap-fit, or threading. Use of a cap can provide a particularly simple and reliable way to protect the collected sample. This design can facilitate handling by untrained users, ensures secure retention of the sample during storage and transport, and further reduce the risk of contamination.

[0025] The cap can be configured to protect the sample from environmental factors (e.g. humidity) and other external factors and substances, which might cause degradation or other changes to the tissue sample.

[0026] In some embodiments, the cap can be configured to allow air exchange with the environment to promote drying of the tissue sample. For example, the cap may comprise ventilating holes. Allowing air exchange can promote drying of the collected tissue sample, which may improve stability during transport / storage and might be advantageous for later sample transfer.

[0027] The cap and / or the transport container may also comprise means for accelerated drying of the sample, e.g. a desiccant, e.g. silica gel. In such embodiments, the cap would also be used to promote drying.

[0028] By selecting the appropriate cap design, the storage conditions of the sample can be tailored to the requirements of the intended downstream processing device.

[0029] The protective element may comprise a wrapping material configured to enclose the tip section. The wrapping material may be, for example, an adhesive tape, an aluminum foil, or a sealing film. Such wrapping can provide a simple and low-cost means of protecting the sample during storage and transport. It can also maintain close contact around the tip section, thereby reducing the risk of sample contamination or loss.

[0030] The protective element can comprise a spray coating configured to be applied over the tissue sample and the tip section when the tissue sample is stored in the tip section. The spray coating may form a thin protective layer that can cover both the tissue sample and the surface of the tip section. A spray coating can offer the advantage of conforming closely to the geometry of the tip section, thereby securing the sample in place. This approach can further simplify handling and may integrate well with workflows where protective or fixation layers are routinely applied to tissue samples. The spray coating may comprise at least one material selected from non-stick polymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, acrylates, silicones, polyurethanes, polytetrafluoroethylene and nylon.

[0031] The protective element can comprise a coating medium applied to the tip section by submerging the tip section with the tissue sample therein into the coating medium. The coating medium can provide full enclosure of the tip section and the sample, thereby ensuring secure retention and protection during storage and transport. This approach can be compatible with existing laboratory techniques in which tissue samples are embedded in media such as paraffin or polymer solutions, and can thus integrate well into standard processing workflows.

[0032] The coating medium can comprise a material selected from hydrogel, petroleum jelly, a polymer solution or paraffin.

[0033] The sampling tool can comprise an adhesive material applied to or integrated with the tip section. The adhesive material can enhance retention of the tissue sample in the tip section.

[0034] The tip section can comprise a diameter of at least 0.1 mm and at most 2 mm, preferably of at least 0.5 mm and at most 1.5 mm, such as, 1 mm. In particular, the tip section may comprise a recess, preferably a concave recess (i.e., a recess with a concave geometry), and the recess (preferably an opening thereof) may comprise the diameter of at least 0.1 mm and at most 2 mm, preferably of at least 0.5 mm and at most 1.5 mm, such as, 1 mm. It will be understood that the tissue sample may be retained in the recess after collection. Preferably, the tip section can be configured such that the tissue sample is directed into the recess during collection.

[0035] The tip section can comprise a depth of at least 0.1 mm and at most 2 mm, preferably of at least 0.5 mm and at most 1.5 mm, such as, 1 mm. In particular, the tip section may comprise a recess, preferably a concave recess (i.e., a recess with a concave geometry), and the recess may comprise the depth of at least 0.1 mm and at most 2 mm, preferably of at least 0.5 mm and at most 1.5 mm, such as, 1 mm. It will be understood that the tissue sample may be retained in the recess after collection. Preferably, the tip section can be configured such that the tissue sample is directed into the recess during collection.

[0036] A tip section within any of the above dimension can allow the collection of a sufficient quantity of tissue for reliable downstream processing, while at the same time reducing the risk of scarring or discomfort for the test subject. The tip section can comprise a sharp edge configured to remove the tissue sample from the test subject. The sharp edge can facilitate efficient removal of tissue fragments during the collection of the tissue sample and can direct the tissue fragments into a concave recess of the tip section for retention. Providing a sharp edge can ensure consistent and effective collection of tissue, while the concave recess of the tip section can retain the material securely for storage and transport. The sharp edge may comprise a diameter of at least 0.1 mm and at most 2 mm, preferably of at least 0.5 mm and at most 1.5 mm, such as, 1 mm

[0037] The tip section can comprise a concave surface terminating at the sharp edge. The concave surface and the surrounding sharp edge together form a cup-shaped structure. The cupshaped structure may comprise a depth of at least 0.1 mm and at most 2 mm, preferably of at least 0.5 mm and at most 1.5 mm, such as, 1 mm. During collection, the sharp edge can loosen tissue fragments which can then be guided into and retained within the cupshaped structure. The concave surface can provide reliable retention of the tissue sample.

[0038] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a method comprising storing and transporting a tissue sample of a test subject in the first sampling kit comprising any of the features described above and below in relation thereto.

[0039] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a use of the first sampling kit, comprising any of the features described above and below in relation thereto, for storing and transporting a tissue sample of a test subject.

[0040] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a sampling kit, which may be referred to as a second sampling kit, for the collection, storage, and transport of a tissue sample of a test subject. The sampling kit comprises a sampling tool comprising a tip section. The tip section can be configured to collect the tissue sample from the test subject. The sampling kit may further comprise a tape element configured to receive the tissue sample from the sampling tool and to store the tissue sample.

[0041] The tape element can allow the entire collected sample to be stored on a flat and adhesive surface, thereby reducing the risk of sample loss during transfer. It can also allow the use of curette-style scraping for efficient sampling while overcoming the limitations of direct tape stripping, such as inconsistent yield or difficulties in sampling certain body parts. By using the tape only for transfer and storage, the approach combines the advantages of scraping with the ease of handling and storage provided by adhesive tapes. The tape element can exhibit a higher surface friction and / or adhesion to the tissue sample than the tip section, thereby promoting complete transfer of the collected material. Transfer may be achieved by wiping the tip section against the surface of the tape element, such that the tissue sample can detach from the tip section and adhere to the tape.

[0042] The sampling tool of the second sampling kit may be identical with the sampling tool of the first sampling kit.

[0043] The tape element can be configured to be inserted into a processing device for processing of the tissue sample. For example, the tape element may be dimensioned and shaped to be inserted directly into a processing device.

[0044] The tape element can be mounted on a lid of a cartridge, the cartridge configured to be inserted into a processing device for processing of the tissue sample. After the tissue sample is transferred from the tip section onto the tape surface, the lid can be closed, thereby enclosing the tape within the cartridge. This configuration can simplify handling by allowing the same component that carries the tape to also serve as a closure for the cartridge. It can reduce the number of separate parts the user must manipulate and can ensure that the sample is securely contained. Additionally, providing the tape element on the lid can improve ergonomics of handling the tape and can ensure that the tape remains flat and secure when the sample is transferred from the tip section.

[0045] The tape element can be mounted on a tape holder configured to facilitate handling of the tape element. The tape holder can improve ergonomics of handling the tape and can ensure that the tape remains flat and secure when the sample is transferred from the tip section.

[0046] The tape holder can be configured to be inserted into a processing device with the tape element and the tissue sample thereon, for processing of the tissue sample. For example, the tape holder can be dimensioned and shaped to be inserted into the processing device. This can reduce the number of transfers required between sampling and processing, since the sample need not be removed from the tape element. As a result, the likelihood of sample loss or contamination can be reduced, and the workflow from collection to processing can be streamlined.

[0047] The tape element can comprise an adhesive surface configured to retain the tissue sample. This can allow a more secure storage of the tissue sample, reducing the risk of sample loss.

[0048] The tape element can comprise a deformable layer having a thickness sufficient to receive the tip section of the sampling tool and conform to its shape during transfer of the tissue sample. By conforming to the shape of the tip section, the deformable layer can ensure intimate contact over the entire surface of the tip section, thereby promoting complete transfer of the collected tissue sample. This reduces the risk that residual material remains on the tip and increases the overall efficiency and reliability of sample transfer.

[0049] In some embodiments, the tape element may consist only of the deformable layer.

[0050] The deformable layer can comprise a deformable acrylic foam material. Acrylic foam provides both resilience and surface compliance, allowing the tape element to conform closely to the tip section during sample transfer.

[0051] The deformable layer can comprise a thickness between 0.25 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. A thickness within these ranges can ensure that the layer is sufficiently deformable to receive and conform to the tip section of the sampling tool, while also being robust enough to provide mechanical stability.

[0052] The second sampling kit can further comprise a protective container configured to receive and contain the tape element with the tissue sample stored thereon. Providing such a container can ensure that the tape element and the sample adhered to it can remain protected from contamination, mechanical damage, and accidental loss, thereby preserving the integrity of the sample during transport.

[0053] The protective container can be airtight.

[0054] The tape element can be provided on a lid of the protective container. After the tissue sample is transferred from the tip section onto the tape surface, the user can close the lid to seal the container. This configuration can streamline handling by combining the transfer surface and the container closure. It can reduce the number of manipulations required by the user, improve ergonomics during the wiping step, and ensure that the sample can be securely enclosed for transport. The protective container with the tape element and sample therein can then be shipped directly to a processing facility.

[0055] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a method comprising storing and transporting a tissue sample of a test subject in the second sampling kit comprising any of the features described above and below in relation thereto.

[0056] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a use of the second sampling kit, comprising any of the features described above and below in relation thereto, for storing and transporting a tissue sample of a test subject. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0057] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a first sampling kit according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0058] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a second sampling kit according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0059] Detailed Description of the Figures

[0060] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described, referring to the figures. These examples are provided to give further understanding of the invention, without limiting its scope.

[0061] In the following description, a series of features and / or steps are described. The skilled person will appreciate that unless explicitly required and / or unless required by context, the order of features and steps is not critical for the resulting configuration and its effect. Further, it will be apparent to the skilled person that irrespective of the order of features and steps, the presence or absence of time delay between steps can be present between some or all of the described steps.

[0062] Figure 1 illustrates a first sampling kit 1. The sampling kit 1 comprises a sampling tool 10 having a handle section 18 and a tip section 12. The tip section 12 can comprise a concave geometry. For example, the tip section 12 can comprise a concave surface 16 terminating in a sharp edge 14. The concave surface 14 can define a recess in which tissue sample can be retained after collection. The sharp edge 14 can be configured to mechanically dislodge tissue fragment(s) from a test subject, for example by tangential scraping, and to direct the dislodged tissue fragment(s) into the recess formed by the concave surface 16.

[0063] After collection, the tissue sample can remain stored in the tip section 12 and may be covered by a protective element 15, here shown as a cap 15. The protective element 15 can shield the tissue sample from environmental contamination and accidental loss during storage and transport. Although illustrated as a cap 15, the protective element 15 may alternatively be configured as or may further comprise a wrapping material, such as tape, foil or sealing film, as a spray coating applied to the tip section, or as a coating medium in which the tip section can be submerged, for example a hydrogel, petroleum jelly, a polymer solution, or paraffin, as set forth in the claims. The protective element 15 may further be configured to form a seal with the sampling tool 10, thereby reducing contamination and ensuring secure retention of the sample.

[0064] The tip section 12 may be detachable from the handle section 18, for example by a snap- fit or threaded connection, so that only the tip section containing the sample need be transported.

[0065] In some embodiments, the sampling tool 10 may be configured in a manner similar to a curette, providing efficient scraping and collection of superficial tissue into the concavity of the tip.

[0066] Figure 2 illustrates a second sampling kit 2. The kit 2 comprises a sampling tool 20 having a tip section 22. The sampling tool 20 may correspond to the sampling tool 10 described with reference to Figure 1 and may therefore comprise all of its features. After collection of a tissue sample, the sample can be transferred from the tip section 22 onto a tape element 25.

[0067] In the embodiment shown, the tape element 25 is provided on a lid 26 of a protective container 24. After transfer of the sample, the lid 26 can be closed to enclose the tape element 25 within the protective container 25. This configuration can simplify handling, improve ergonomics, and ensure that the sample can be securely enclosed during storage and transport. In alternative embodiments, the tape element 25 may be mounted on a tape holder configured to facilitate handling, or on a lid of cartridge (similar to the embodiment shown), or it may be provided as a standalone component. The tape element may further be configured to be inserted into a processing device, optionally with the tape holder, thereby reducing the number of handling steps before analysis.

[0068] The tape element 25 may comprise an adhesive surface to retain the tissue sample securely, and may further comprise a deformable layer that conforms to the shape of the tip section 22 during transfer. The deformable layer may, for example, consist of a deformable acrylic foam having a thickness between 0.25 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. The protective container 24 may be airtight to maintain controlled conditions during transport.

[0069] While the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention, but merely serve to illustrate the invention. Whenever a relative term, such as "about", "substantially" or "approximately" is used in this specification, such a term should also be construed to also include the exact term. That is, e.g., "substantially straight" should be construed to also include "(exactly) straight".

[0070] Whenever steps were recited in the above or also in the appended claims, it should be noted that the order in which the steps are recited in this text may be accidental. That is, unless otherwise specified or unless clear to the skilled person, the order in which steps are recited may be accidental. That is, when the present document states, e.g., that a method comprises steps (A) and (B), this does not necessarily mean that step (A) precedes step (B), but it is also possible that step (A) is performed (at least partly) simultaneously with step (B) or that step (B) precedes step (A). Furthermore, when a step (X) is said to precede another step (Z), this does not imply that there is no step between steps (X) and (Z). That is, step (X) preceding step (Z) encompasses the situation that step (X) is performed directly before step (Z), but also the situation that (X) is performed before one or more steps (Yl), ..., followed by step (Z). Corresponding considerations apply when terms like "after" or "before" are used.

[0071] While in the above, preferred embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the skilled person will understand that these embodiments were provided for illustrative purpose only and should by no means be construed to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the claims.

Claims

Claims1. A sampling kit (1) for the collection, storage, and transport of a tissue sample of a test subject, comprising: a sampling tool (10) comprising a tip section (12), preferably with a concave geometry, the tip section (12) configured to collect the tissue sample from the test subject and to store the tissue sample for transport; a protective element (15) configured to cover the tip section (12) with the tissue sample stored in the tip section (12) for transport.

2. The sampling kit of claim 1, further comprising a transport container configured to receive and contain at least the tip section (12) of the sampling tool (10) with the tissue sample stored in the tip section (12) and with the tip section (12) and the tissue sample covered by the protective element (15).

3. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the protective element (15) is configured to form a seal with the sampling tool (10).

4. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sampling tool (10) is configured such that the tip section (12) is detachable from a handle section (18) of the sampling tool (10).

5. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the protective element (15) comprises a cap configured to cover the tip section (12) with the tissue sample in the tip section (12).

6. The sampling kit of claim 5, wherein the cap is configured to allow air exchange with the environment to promote drying of the tissue sample.

7. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the protective element (15) comprises a wrapping material configured to enclose the tip section (12), the wrapping material preferably selected from tape, foil, or sealing film.

8. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the protective element (15) comprises a spray coating configured to be applied over the tissue sample and the tip section (12) when the tissue sample is stored in the tip section (12).

9. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the protective element (15) comprises a coating medium applied to the tip section (12) by submerging the tip section (12) with the tissue sample therein into the coating medium.

10. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the coating medium comprises a material selected from hydrogel, petroleum jelly, a polymer solution or paraffin.

11. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sampling tool (10) comprises an adhesive material applied to or integrated with the tip section (12).

12. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the tip section (12) comprises a diameter of at least 0.1 mm and at most 2 mm, preferably of at least 0.5 mm and at most 1.5 mm, such as, 1 mm.

13. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the tip section (12) comprises a depth of at least 0.1 mm and at most 2 mm, preferably of at least 0.5 mm and at most 1.5 mm, such as, 1 mm.

14. The sampling kit of any of the preceding claims, wherein the tip section (12) comprises a sharp edge (14) configured to remove the tissue sample from the test subject.

15. The sampling kit of claim 14, wherein the tip section (12) comprises a concave surface (16) terminating at the sharp edge.

16. A method comprising storing and transporting a tissue sample of a test subject in a sampling kit according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 15.

17. Use of the sampling kit according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 15 for storing and transporting a tissue sample of a test subject.

18. A sampling kit for the collection, storage, and transport of a tissue sample of a test subject, comprising: a sampling tool (20) comprising a tip section (22), the tip section (22) configured to collect the tissue sample from the test subject; a tape element (25) configured to receive the tissue sample from the sampling tool (20) and to store the tissue sample.

19. The sampling kit of claim 18, wherein the tape element (25) is configured to be inserted into a processing device for processing of the tissue sample.

20. The sampling kit of claim 18 or 19, wherein the tape element (25) is mounted on a lid of a cartridge, the cartridge configured to be inserted into a processing device for processing of the tissue sample.

21. The sampling kit of any of claims 18 to 20, wherein the tape element (25) is mounted on a tape holder configured to facilitate handling of the tape element (25).

22. The sampling kit of claim 21, wherein the tape holder is configured to be inserted into a processing device with the tape element (25) and the tissue sample thereon, for processing of the tissue sample.

23. The sampling kit of any of claims 18 to 22, wherein the tape element (25) comprises an adhesive surface configured to retain the tissue sample.

24. The sampling kit of any of claims 18 to 23, wherein the tape element (25) comprises a deformable layer having a thickness sufficient to receive the tip section (22) of the sampling tool (20) and conform to its shape during transfer of the tissue sample.

25. The sampling kit of claim 24, wherein the deformable layer comprises a deformable acrylic foam material.

26. The sampling kit of claim 24 or 25, wherein the deformable layer comprises a thickness between 0.25 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 2 mm.

27. The sampling kit of any of claims 18 to 26, further comprising a protective container (24) configured to receive and contain the tape element (25) with the tissue sample stored thereon.

28. The sampling kit of claim 27, wherein the protective container is airtight.

29. The sampling kit of claim 27 or 28, wherein the tape element (25) is provided on a lid (26) of the protective container (24).

30. A method comprising storing and transporting a tissue sample of a test subject in a sampling kit according to any of the preceding claims 18 to 29.

31. Use of the sampling kit according to any of the preceding claims 18 to 29 for storing and transporting a tissue sample of a test subject.

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