homeRNA: A self-sampling kit for the collection of peripheral blood and stabilization of RNA

Gene expression analysis (e.g., targeted small gene panels, transcriptomics) from whole blood can elucidate mechanisms of immune function and aid in the discovery of biomarkers. Conventional in-clinic venipuncture offers only a small snapshot of our broad immune landscape as immune responses may occur outside of the time and location parameters available for conventional venipuncture. A self-operated method that enables flexible sampling of liquid whole blood coupled with an immediate stabilization of cellular RNA is instrumental in facilitating capture and preservation of acute or transient immune fluxes. To this end, we developed homeRNA: a kit that allows for self-collection of peripheral blood ([~]0.5 mL) and immediate stabilization of cellular RNA, using the Tasso-SST blood collection device paired with a specially designed stabilizer tube containing RNAlater. To assess the usability and feasibility of homeRNA for self-collection and stabilization of whole blood RNA, we conducted a pilot study (n = 41 participants) where we sent homeRNA to participants aged 21-69, located across 10 US states (94% successful blood collections, n = 51). Among participants who successfully collected blood, 91% reported no or minimal pain/discomfort using the kit (n = 35), and 77% reported easy or somewhat easy stabilization protocol. Total RNA yield from the stabilized samples ranged between 0.24 {micro}g and 5.99 {micro}g (mean = 1.65 {micro}g), while RNA Integrity Number (RIN) values were above 7.0 (mean = 7.9), indicating limited RNA degradation. Results from this study demonstrate the self-collection and RNA stabilization of whole blood with homeRNA by participants themselves, in their own home.