(858) 224-9100
NEMBROTHA CRISTATA
Saliva Collection
Saliva collection devices and kits for genomics, molecular diagnostics, hormone testing, and drug-of-abuse screening. Non-invasive collection with stabilization buffers for room-temperature transport and long-term DNA/RNA preservation.
1–5mL
Collection Volume
RT Stable
Room Temp Transport
Sterile, Collection Kit, w/ Funnel & 10mL Tube, 25/unit
SKU: COV-10-A000
🧬
Saliva as a Specimen Matrix
Saliva is a non-invasive alternative to blood for a growing number of clinical and research applications. It contains cell-free DNA, hormones (cortisol, testosterone, DHEA), drugs and metabolites, and antibodies — all accessible without phlebotomy. The key challenge is stabilization: salivary nucleases and proteases degrade analytes rapidly unless the specimen is preserved immediately at the point of collection.
💡Stabilization Buffer Is Critical
Saliva collection devices with integrated stabilization buffer inactivate nucleases and denature proteins on contact, preserving DNA, RNA, and proteins at room temperature for days to weeks. This eliminates cold-chain requirements and enables decentralized collection — patients can spit at home and mail the specimen back. For hormone or drug testing, check whether your assay requires a buffer-free (neat saliva) specimen, as stabilization buffers are primarily designed for nucleic acid workflows.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
Saliva Collection FAQ
Most genomic applications require 1–2mL of saliva, which typically yields 50–200 ug of high-molecular-weight DNA — sufficient for genotyping arrays, whole-genome sequencing, and multiple downstream assays. Collection devices with volume indicators help ensure adequate specimen is obtained.
With stabilization buffer, DNA in saliva remains intact for up to 12 months at room temperature and even longer at -20 C. Without buffer, salivary nucleases begin degrading DNA within hours. For hormone assays using neat saliva, freeze specimens within 30 minutes of collection or follow your assay manufacturer's stability guidelines.
A 2mL saliva specimen with stabilization buffer typically yields 50–200 ug of total DNA with an A260/A280 ratio of 1.6–2.0. Yield varies with individual donor cell shedding rates and collection technique. Stimulating saliva flow (e.g., gentle cheek rubbing) before collection can increase epithelial cell content and improve yield.
Yes. Oral fluid (saliva) drug testing is widely used for workplace, roadside, and clinical screening. Saliva is collected neat (without buffer) using absorbent pads or passive drool devices. It detects recent drug use with a shorter detection window than urine — typically 24–48 hours — making it better at identifying current impairment.
Yes. Saliva has been validated for SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR and is being adopted for other respiratory pathogens. The key advantage is self-collection without a healthcare worker and without the discomfort of NP swabs. Ensure your collection device and downstream extraction method are validated for the specific pathogen panel.
Patients should avoid eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing gum for at least 30 minutes before collection. Food particles, acidic beverages, and tobacco residues can introduce PCR inhibitors or alter pH. Rinsing with water 10 minutes before collection can help clear the oral cavity without affecting specimen quality.
Setting up a saliva collection workflow?
We can help you select the right device for your application — genomics, diagnostics, or drug testing. Contact us for sample kits and volume pricing.