Sample Collection for Cytokine Analysis

Plasma

• Use EDTA (lavender top) tube for collection

- For microtainers observe fill lines for adequate volume

- For larger tubes fill half-way or more

• Cap and promptly mix blood with EDTA by gentle tube inversion (6-8x)

• Centrifuge sample at 1000 x g for 10 minutes

- Maintain samples at 4°C if any delay prior to centrifugation

• Promptly pipette plasma into sterile non-additive tube for storage or shipment

Serum

• Use serum separator or non-additive tube for collection

• Cap tube and allow blood to clot at room temperature (~30 minutes)

• Centrifuge sample at 1000 x g for 10 minutes

• Promptly pipette serum into sterile non-additive tube for storage or shipment

Cell Culture Supernatant

• Centrifuge sample at 500 X g for 5 minutes to remove any particulates

• Promptly pipette supernatant into a sterile non-additive tube for storage or shipment

Sample Storage

• Minimize time between collection and storage (below 1 hour)

• Storage at -80°C recommended, -20°C acceptable

• Recommend using storage tubes that are compatible with dry ice

• Maximum storage time for samples is 2 years stored at -80°C

• Freeze/thaw cycles should be avoided

Sample Shipment

• Ship samples frozen on dry ice

• Include copy of submission form

• Insulated (e.g., Styrofoam) containers work best

• Place box of tubes inside container, boxes with dividers are ideal

• Parafilm™ over tube lids is recommended to prevent leakage

• Bubble wrap/paper can be added to cushion samples in transit

Please send the samples via FedEx for overnight delivery. Delivery address and contact information below.