The density of Lymphoprep is 1.077 ± 0.001 g/ml.
Lymphoprep is a widely utilized sterile, ready-to-use solution specifically designed for the isolation of mononuclear cells, such as lymphocytes and monocytes, from whole blood or bone marrow. Its precise density is a critical factor enabling effective cell separation through density gradient centrifugation.
Understanding Lymphoprep's Density and Its Role
The carefully controlled density of Lymphoprep allows it to separate different cell types based on their natural buoyancy. When blood is carefully layered onto Lymphoprep and centrifuged, the various components separate into distinct layers:
- Red blood cells and granulocytes (which are denser than Lymphoprep) pass through the Lymphoprep solution and pellet at the bottom of the tube.
- Mononuclear cells (lymphocytes and monocytes), being less dense than Lymphoprep, accumulate at the interface between the plasma and the Lymphoprep solution, forming a distinct band.
- Plasma and platelets remain at the top.
This principle of density gradient centrifugation, facilitated by Lymphoprep's specific gravity, provides a quick and efficient method for obtaining a highly purified suspension of mononuclear cells, which are essential for various research and diagnostic applications. The exact density ensures optimal separation for human mononuclear cells, whose density typically falls between approximately 1.070 and 1.077 g/ml, while other blood components like granulocytes and red blood cells are denser (e.g., >1.080 g/ml).
Key Characteristics of Lymphoprep
Beyond its precise density, Lymphoprep possesses several other important characteristics that ensure its efficacy and suitability for biological applications. These properties are meticulously controlled to guarantee optimal performance in cell isolation procedures.
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.077 ± 0.001 g/ml |
| Composition | 9.1% (w/v) Sodium Diatrizoate, 5.7% (w/v) Polysaccharide |
| Osmolality | 290 ± 15 mOsm |
| Endotoxin Level | < 1.0 EU/ml |
For more detailed information on Lymphoprep and its applications, you can refer to product specifics often provided by manufacturers, such as the PROGEN LymphoPrep™ 6x500 ml product page.
