Viral transport media (VTM) is a solution used to preserve and transport viruses, chlamydia, and mycoplasma for research, diagnostic testing, and cell culture. VTM helps to maintain the integrity of RNA viruses, which can be damaged by ultra-low temperature freezers or liquid nitrogen.
VTM are prepared with buffered proteins (serum, albumin, or gelatin), salt solutions and antibiotics. Buffered proteins are used to promote viral growth, provide protection against force during shaking and stirring the medium. A balanced salt solution is added to maintain viable state of the cells, pH and osmotic pressure. Antibiotics are often added to viral transport media to inhibit the development of contaminating bacteria and fungus.