Types Of Blood Collection Tubes For Biobanking

Biobanking is an important aspect of medical research, allowing scientists to store and analyze biological samples for future studies. Blood collection tubes are essential tools used in biobanking to collect and preserve blood samples for various research purposes. In this article, we will explore the different types of blood collection tubes commonly used in biobanking and their specific uses.

EDTA Tubes

EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) tubes are commonly used in biobanking for the collection of whole blood samples. The EDTA acts as an anticoagulant, preventing blood from clotting by chelating calcium ions. This type of tube is ideal for storing blood samples for DNA extraction, as the anticoagulant prevents clotting and preserves the integrity of the DNA.

Some of the key features of EDTA tubes include:

1. Available in purple or lavender tops for easy identification
2. Used for routine hematology testing and DNA extraction
3. Contains a specific concentration of EDTA to prevent blood clotting

For more information on EDTA tubes, you can visit Sarstedt.

Serum Separator Tubes

Serum separator tubes, also known as SST tubes, contain a gel barrier that separates the serum from the clot after centrifugation. These tubes are used to collect blood samples for testing various analytes, including glucose, cholesterol, and liver function tests. The gel barrier allows for easy separation of serum from the clot, making it suitable for clinical chemistry testing.

Key features of serum separator tubes include:

1. Available in red or gold tops for easy identification
2. Used for chemistry testing and hormone analysis
3. Gel barrier separates serum from the clot after centrifugation

For more information on serum separator tubes, you can visit BD Biosciences.

Heparin Tubes

Heparin tubes are coated with lithium or sodium heparin, an anticoagulant that inhibits the clotting cascade by enhancing the activity of antithrombin. These tubes are used for the collection of blood samples for various tests, such as plasma determinations and coagulation studies. Heparin tubes are ideal for storing whole blood samples for plasma preparation.

Some of the key features of heparin tubes include:

1. Available in green tops for easy identification
2. Used for plasma determinations and coagulation studies
3. Heparin anticoagulant prevents blood clotting by inhibiting clotting factors

For more information on heparin tubes, you can visit Greiner Bio-One.

Citrate Tubes

Citrate tubes are coated with trisodium citrate, an anticoagulant that binds with calcium ions to prevent blood clotting. These tubes are commonly used for coagulation studies and tests, such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Citrate tubes are essential for storing plasma samples for coagulation studies.

Key features of citrate tubes include:

1. Available in blue tops for easy identification
2. Used for coagulation studies and PT/aPTT testing
3. Citrate anticoagulant binds with calcium ions to prevent blood clotting

For more information on citrate tubes, you can visit Greiner Bio-One.

Storage and Handling of Blood Collection Tubes

Proper storage and handling of blood collection tubes are essential to maintaining the integrity of the samples for biobanking. Here are some tips for storing and handling blood collection tubes:

Storage

1. Store blood collection tubes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
2. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for storage temperature and humidity
3. Avoid freezing or heating blood collection tubes beyond the recommended temperature range

Handling

1. Handle blood collection tubes with care to avoid contamination or breakage
2. Label each tube with the patient's information and collection date/time
3. Use the correct type of tube for the specific test being performed

By following these guidelines, researchers can ensure the quality and integrity of blood samples collected for biobanking.

Conclusion

Overall, blood collection tubes are essential tools used in biobanking to collect and preserve blood samples for various research purposes. Understanding the different types of blood collection tubes and their specific uses is crucial for researchers in the field of medical research. By using the right type of tube for each specific test, researchers can ensure the accuracy and reliability of their research findings.

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