Puritan Internal Controls: Identifying the Source of RNA in Flocked Swabs

Puritan Internal Controls: Identifying the Source of RNA in Flocked Swabs

During the research and development phase that led to the creation of our patented PurFlock Ultra® and HydraFlock® swabs, we created a series of DNA-free nylon based flocked swabs. All of our products undergo rigorous quality testing, performed in partnership with Puritan, by the laboratory at the University of Maine. Routine testing of one batch of these nylon flocked swabs in April 2012 uncovered a surprising issue: potential RNase contamination.

We conducted a series of experiments, ultimately leading us to the conclusion that the nylon used in our flocking process was binding to the RNA that was introduced during testing, preventing it from properly eluting into the solution. This discovery allowed us to rule out RNase contamination of the swabs, and gave us the opportunity to identify how RNA will react with the various materials we use to produce our products.

We are now able to produce customized solutions based on the specific applications and testing procedures of our customers. Internal controls like the testing described above allow us ensure the quality and performance of each and every one of our products.