Function of irradiated polymorphonuclear leukocytes obtained by buffy-coat centrifugation

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Immunology
• Neonatal Medicine

Background:

• Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) transfusions show promise for treating neonatal sepsis.
• Current methods for PMN collection (leukapheresis) are costly and complex.
• Buffy coat centrifugation is proposed as a more accessible alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the oxidative and migratory functions of PMNs isolated via buffy coat centrifugation.
• To assess the impact of storage and irradiation on PMN function.

Main Methods:

• Whole blood samples from six volunteers were collected and stored at 4°C for up to 48 hours.
• Half of each sample was irradiated (1500 rads).
• PMN function was assessed using chemiluminescence (CL) and chemotaxis under agarose (CT).

Main Results:

• PMNs retained over 80% of normal CT and CL function after 0–28 hours of storage.
• Irradiation did not significantly impair PMN function.
• One unit of whole blood yielded approximately 1.11 x 10^9 PMNs.

Conclusions:

• Buffy coat centrifugation is a practical method for obtaining functional PMNs.
• Irradiated PMNs from stored whole blood (less than 28 hours old) are suitable for transfusion studies.
• This method offers a cost-effective alternative for PMN procurement in neonatal care.