CAMbank: Saliva Collection (preservative, v1) v1

This protocol describes the collection of preserved saliva samples using the OMNIgene ORAL (OME-505) kit, optimized for nucleic acid and protein stabilization in both ground-based and spaceflight environments. Participants deposit saliva directly into the OME-505 collection tube until reaching the indicated fill line, after which the integrated preservative is released upon capping and mixed thoroughly by inversion. Samples are stored at −20°C until downstream processing. This method was implemented during the SpaceX Inspiration4 mission at multiple ground timepoints, yielding DNA (28.1–3187.8 ng), RNA (396.0–3544.2 ng), and protein (92.97–93.15 ng) suitable for a wide range of downstream analyses, including genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and microbiome profiling. The preservative enables room-temperature stability during transit and mitigates degradation risks associated with delayed processing, making it compatible with mission scenarios lacking immediate cold stowage. This standardized collection approach supports the Space Omics and Medical Atlas (SOMA) initiative’s goal of generating high-quality, cross-mission comparable multi-omics datasets for astronaut health research.