MAWI DNA Technologies (Hayward, California) revolutionized the collection of biological samples.  They developed the  iSWAB™ device which enables swab-based non-invasive sample collection and mechanistic release of cells to a stabilization buffer in a concentrated manner. Swabs are discarded right after collection and do need to be included when shipping the sample.

Specimens are preserved in the sample type-specific iSWAB buffer for shipment and storage at room temperature:

See here for publications and articles about MAWI´s iSWAB technology.