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Our core expertise is leukapheresis, unstimulated and stimulated through high quality leukapheresis. We consistently obtain high cell yields from the circulatory system. Leukapheresis is a globally established process used to obtain blood and certain cell populations.

Through leukapheresis the blood and cells are separated into its constituent parts using centrifugation. During leukapheresis, the cells are collected in a “Leukopak”.

During the leukapheresis procedure, white blood cells are enriched and extracted according to need. Leukapheresis is carried out using machines (apheresis devices). We are using the Spectra Optia® Apheresis System CMNC collection protocol in ACD-A anticoagulant.

Leukopaks are therefore the result of leukapheresis. Through this procedure collection and enrichment of white blood cells from multiple volumes of healthy donor peripheral blood is achieved by a simultaneous return of non-targeted blood cells to circulation. This procedure results in large yields of single-donor mononuclear cells (MNCs), limiting the impact of donor-to-donor variability. Cyto-care offers leukopaks fresh and cryopreserved, thus allowing for scalability and reproducibility of experiments and in different formats:

  • Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs)
  • Subpopulations: T Cells, B Cells, NK Cells and Monocytes

Cryopreserved leukopaks are cryopreserved on site immediately following collection and are prepared cells for long-term storage in liquid nitrogen vapor phase and thaw for use. Storage in liquid phase nitrogen is NOT recommended. Short-term storage of cells (less than 2 weeks) at -80 °C is acceptable but should be minimized to ensure maximum stability. Once thawed, samples must be used immediately.

Testing: Donors are tested for HBV, HCV, HIV, HTLV, WNV and Syphilis. We ensure that fresh donor material is available to customers. Since 2006, our key competence has been the collection and purification of human blood cells by leukapheresis for clinical trials and research purposes. We also offer medical and scientific consulting in the area of cell therapy to medical specialists, research organizations and pharmaceutical companies.

We perform our leukapheresis with single-use kits.

HOW DOES LEUKAPHERESIS WORK?

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Prior to a cell collection, an appointment is arranged to discuss the procedure. During this meeting, the donors and patients will be informed about the sequence of events, about necessary steps that need to be taken in preparation to the procedure and any possible risks. Any further queries will be addressed and clarified during the appointment.
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The donors and patients are informed in-depth and thoroughly about the procedure, duration and possible risks. Donor’s and patient‘s information and consent is signed and documented.
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The leukapheresis procedure is generally performed within one week after the initial consultation and after the informed consent. During the leukapheresis, two veins are punctured. Blood is drawn from one vein and after the desired cells have been extracted via controlled centrifugation, returned via the other vein. This extraction and return of cells is a continuous process. The procedure lasts approximately three to five hours from start to finish. The whole procedure is taking place while reclined and lying comfortably in a bed, cared for by staff members.
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Cell collection through leukapheresis is painless and is generally not associated with adverse effects. In very rare cases donors or patients may experience mild paresthesias (a sensation of tingling). In extremely rare cases, vomiting or circulatory difficulties may occur. Adverse reactions are easy to treat and hospitalization is generally not necessary, even in the instance of severe reactions.