Viable Cells

The buffy coat accounts for less than 1 percent of a whole blood sample, yet it contains the majority of white blood cells (WBC) and platelets. In fact, leukocytes can be 10-20X more concentrated in the buffy coat than in whole blood. Therefore these samples are highly valuable for researchers and healthcare professionals who require WBC and platelets for studies or treatments.

High amounts of white blood cells (WBC) and platelets. White blood cells are continuously searching for, identifying, and combating viruses, bacteria, and other antigens that can lead to illness, infection, and other harmful conditions. Platelets are microscopic blood cells whose primary function is to prevent bleeding. Whenever your body is subjected to an injury, platelets rush to the affected area and begin a process called adhesion, which is what leads to scabs and clotting.

In order to fractionate the buffy coat from a whole blood sample, a process called centrifugation is used. Essentially, this process involves placing the whole blood sample in a centrifuge — a piece of equipment that spins the blood at a high speed. This causes the particles within the blood to separate, making them easier to collect.

The buffy coat of blood is a precious commodity. When used in research, specifically, it helps academic professionals to further examine the role of these powerful cells and explore new ways to treat patients successfully. Buffy coat can also be used by healthcare specialists to identify the presence of harmful diseases like malaria, or to increase platelet counts in patients who require it.