For functional studies (serotonin release, Ca flux, RNA content, etc) in
which we want to study all platelets, we usually purify platelets since
there is always significant binding to leukocytes when platelets are
resting and a whole lot more leukocyte binding with platelet activation
(EDTA will block activated platelet-leukocyte adhesion but it tends to
disrupt receptors that you want to study). Depending upon the application,
we use either arabinogalactan gradients to isolate close to 100% of
peripheral blood platelets from a sample or density centrifugation for
platelet-rich plasma (which is less stringent but much less of a hassle).
I'd be happy to discuss specific applications and methods.
Harv Rinder
Ph. 203-785-4231
Fx. 203-737-4111
CD-ROM Vol 3 was produced by Monica M. Shively and other staff at the
Purdue University Cytometry Laboratories and distributed free of charge
as an educational service to the cytometry community.
If you have any comments please direct them to
Dr. J. Paul Robinson, Professor & Director,
PUCL, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907.
Phone: (765)-494-0757;
FAX(765) 494-0517;
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