Introducing a Multipurpose Sample Collection and Transport System Compatible with Lab Automation

A comparative clinical evaluation examined the suitability of several commercially available liquid Amies-based specimen collection systems for both molecular diagnostics and culture workflows within automated laboratory environments. Using nucleic acid amplification and culture-based assays, paired with storage at room temperature and 4 °C, the study assessed stability and analytical performance across bacterial, viral, and sexually transmitted infection targets, including Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and common respiratory and enteric bacteria. Molecular targets remained broadly stable across all tested transport systems for up to one week under controlled conditions, whereas culture viability varied significantly by organism and storage temperature, with Neisseria gonorrhoeae showing marked loss of viability at room temperature after 24–48 hours. Refrigeration improved culture recovery for several organisms but did not fully prevent overgrowth in fast-growing species. Overall, the findings indicate that liquid Amies transport systems can support dual-purpose use for molecular and culture diagnostics from a single specimen, although performance is organism- and storage-condition dependent, highlighting the importance of defined pre-analytical handling parameters when integrating such devices into automated diagnostic workflows.