A method for the isolation and purification of mouse peripheral blood monocytes

Studies in mice have advanced our understanding of the contribution of monocytes to inflammation and immunity. However, the lack of a straightforward and reliable method for the isolation of mouse blood monocytes remains a hurdle. Here we describe a fast and easy method for isolating monocytes from mouse blood based on immuno-magnetic labeling. By negative selection we were able to isolate enriched fractions (>50% purity) of unlabeled monocytes. A subsequent positive selection step resulted in purities of > or =90% viable and functional monocytes. This method is of general use for studying mouse monocyte biology.