Accurate molecular microbiome analysis starts with reliable sample collection. During collection, storage and transport, biological samples can undergo significant quality changes that may affect downstream results. Zymo Research offers innovative fecal sample collection solutions designed to preserve microbial DNA and RNA at the point of collection, ensuring sample integrity for microbiome studies, NGS workflows and molecular analysis. The portfolio combines convenient collection devices with proven stabilization technology to support consistent and reproducible results.

Preserve the Microbial Profile from Collection to Analysis

The DNA/RNA Shield™ platform enables immediate stabilization of nucleic acids while effectively inactivating pathogens. Samples can be transported and stored at ambient temperature without compromising DNA or RNA quality. This helps maintain the original microbial composition and reduces the need for complex cold-chain logistics. Studies have shown that stool samples preserved in DNA/RNA Shield™ maintain a stable microbial profile even after extended storage at room temperature. 

Studies have shown that stool samples stored in DNA/RNA Shield™ maintain a stable microbial composition for up to one month at ambient temperature, while untreated samples show significant shifts in microbial profiles over time.

Key Benefits

• Preserve microbial DNA and RNA immediately after collection using the proven DNA/RNA Shield™ Fecal Collection Tube from Zymo Research
• Room-temperature transport and storage
• Pathogen inactivation for safer handling
• No cold-chain shipping required
• Compatible with NGS, qPCR and microbiome workflows
• Available for research and CE-IVD applications
• Trusted technology cited in thousands of scientific publications

DNA/RNA Shield™ Fecal Collection Tube

The DNA/RNA Shield™ Fecal Collection Tube is designed for convenient stool sample collection, stabilization and transport. Pre-filled with DNA/RNA Shield™, the tube preserves nucleic acids, inactivates pathogens and captures a microbial snapshot at the time of collection. Integrated homogenization beads and a collection spoon simplify sample processing while ensuring reliable downstream analysis.

Features

• DNA stable at room temperature for up to two years
• RNA stable at room temperature for more than one month
• Integrated collection spoon
• Bead-based homogenization technology
• Available with or without swab
• CE-IVD and RUO versions available
• Customizable kit configurations available

User-Friendly Collection Options

To improve participant compliance and simplify sample collection, Zymo Research offers additional collection devices that integrate seamlessly with DNA/RNA Shield™ technology.

Bunny Wipe™ Fecal Sample Collector

The Bunny Wipe™ Fecal Sample Collector provides a familiar, toilet paper-like collection method for at-home sampling. After use, the designated collection strip is transferred into a DNA/RNA Shield™ Fecal Collection Tube, allowing immediate stabilization for downstream microbiome analysis.

Feces Catcher

The Feces Catcher offers a hygienic and convenient collection method and is designed to simplify stool sample collection prior to transfer into a preservation tube. It supports reproducible sampling while improving user comfort and handling.

Applications

Zymo's collection and preservation solutions are suitable for:

• Gut microbiome research
• 16S rRNA sequencing
• Metagenomics
• Next-generation sequencing (NGS)
• qPCR applications
• Clinical and translational research
• Longitudinal microbiome studies

Proven Stability Through Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Safe Transport Through Pathogen Inactivation

Why Choose Zymo Research?

Researchers worldwide rely on Zymo Research collection technologies to preserve sample quality from collection through analysis. By combining easy-to-use collection devices with proven DNA and RNA stabilization, Zymo helps ensure reliable and reproducible microbiome data, even when samples are collected remotely and transported at ambient temperature.