How long can I store the RNAs without them losing activities?
All custom RNA oligo are stored in an inert chemical matrix that inactivates trace RNase in the liquid phase providing an an added level of RNA stability during sample handling, with our without ice. In the dry-state, it preserves RNA integrity by protecting samples from hydrolysis and oxidation and imparts thermal stability at temperatures ranging from -80°C to 76°C/169°F, enabling ambient temperature storage andtransport of RNA. Storage of RNA lyophilized at -80 °C is the ideal, however storage at -20°C is acceptable. If you do not have a way to dry down aliquoted RNA, the next best is to store the oligo as an ethanol precipitate or in RNase-Free Water or TE at -80°C in RNase-free tubes. DEPC Water is not recommended, While it make solutions "nuclease free" most labs are not able to remove all the DEPC (released as CO2 after autoclaving). Some will stick to the glass bottle and will, in long term storage, degrade the RNA. There are commercially available storage buffers, such as the sodium citrate storage buffer available from Ambion.
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02/25/2011