Pre-analytical variables: an underestimated challenge for soluble cytokine analysis in blood samples 2471

Description Blood-based cytokines are pivotal diagnostic, prognostic, and pharmacodynamic biomarkers. However, a lack of understanding of the sample matrix and minimal standardization in blood collection and processing can make precise cytokine measurement in blood samples challenging. Because many soluble cytokines reside in granules of blood cells like platelets, neutrophils, NK cells, and macrophages, they are vulnerable to ex vivo changes in a blood sample. These changes can occur immediately after draw (e.g., platelet/leukocyte activation) and continue during storage (e.g., blood cell degradation), complicating the analysis. To address these issues, Streck developed Protein Plus BCT, a whole blood stabilization tube specialized for plasma protein analysis. Blood from 12 donors was collected into Protein Plus BCT and stored at ambient temperature for up to 6 days, then tested against draw-time processed samples using the 46-plex cytokine Luminex assay (Bio-Techne). Our data show that Protein Plus BCT minimizes ex vivo blood activation at draw and maintains cytokine levels (e.g., IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, VEGF, PD-L1, CCL5, TNF-α) for up to 6 days and suggest that incorporation of Protein Plus BCT into pre-analytical workflows ensures reliable results in plasma cytokine analysis. Protein Plus BCT is For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures. Protein Plus BCT should only be used for research or the development of new assays. Funding Sources Research funded by Streck LLC. Topic Categories Cytokines and Chemokines and Their Receptors (CCR)