Comprehensive PBMC Lab Services for Biotech and Biopharma
Accelevir is a CLIA-certified laboratory delivering advanced PBMC lab services designed to meet the demands of biotech, pharmaceutical, and clinical researchers. With expertise in PBMC isolation, processing, cryopreservation, enrichment, and downstream analysis, our laboratory offers:
- GCLP-compliant PBMC processing workflows
- Central lab infrastructure with GMP, GCLP, and CLIA compliance
- Multiple biospecimen sources and isolation techniques
- Specialty processing and cell subset enrichment
- Integration with flow cytometry, immunogenicity, molecular, and gene therapy assay services
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What Are PBMCs and Why Are They Important?
Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are immune cells with a single round nucleus, including lymphocytes (T cells, B cells, NK cells) and monocytes. Isolated from whole blood and other sources, they are essential for immune monitoring, cellular analysis, and the development of advanced therapeutics.
Clinical and Research Applications:
- Cell and Gene Therapy: Source for T-cell engineering, AAV/LV vector tracking, and safety assays
- Immuno-Oncology: Profiling T-cell subsets, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and checkpoint responses
- Biomarker Discovery: Longitudinal studies of immune status and drug response
- Patient Stratification: Tailored treatment plans based on immune cell populations
- Toxicology & Rare Disease: Functional immune assays and rare target quantification
Biospecimen Sources for PBMC Isolation
We process PBMCs from a range of biological matrices to match your study design:
- Whole Blood (EDTA, LiHeparin, ACD tubes)
- Buffy Coat (donation byproduct; high yield)
- Leukoreduction System Chambers (concentrated PBMC source)
- Leukopaks (large-volume leukapheresis collections)
- Bone Marrow and Cord Blood (available on request for specialized assays)
Each source is optimized with specific isolation workflows and viability controls.
PBMC Isolation Methods
We offer all standard and advanced techniques to suit sample type and scale:
Density Gradient Centrifugation
- Ficoll-Paque overlay method
- Gold standard with robust yield and viability
Frit Barrier Tubes
- SepMate™, LeucoSep™ for standardized and faster processing
- Reduces inter-operator variability
Cell Preparation Tubes (CPT)
- Enable on-site centrifugation with stabilized PBMCs for transport
- Ideal for distributed trial sites with centralized processing
Immunomagnetic Cell Separation
- MACSprep™, EasySep™ for high-purity PBMC isolation and subset enrichment
- Column-based and column-free systems
- Suitable for large-scale leukopak processing
Automated PBMC Processing
- RoboSep™ system for walk-away magnetic separation
- Improves reproducibility and throughput
PBMC Counting, Freezing, and Storage
Accelevir performs comprehensive post-isolation processing:
- Manual and automated PBMC counting (trypan blue, AO/PI, viability assays)
- Cryopreservation with controlled-rate freezing (−1°C/min)
- Short-term storage at −80°C and long-term storage in vapor-phase liquid nitrogen
- Serum-free and DMSO-based freezing media with validated low-endotoxin profiles
- On-demand retrieval and thawing with viability documentation
Customization & Specialty Processing Services
We tailor every project to client specifications with:
- Custom SOPs and documentation packages
- Normalization of PBMC concentration to study-specific values
- Preparation of dry cell pellets or serum-free aliquots
- Aliquoting, labeling, and batch management
- Custom shipping and biobanking options
Quality and Competency Standards
- Globally harmonized SOPs validated across sample types
- All staff undergo routine competency and proficiency testing
- CLIA and GCLP alignment across lab workflows
- Independently audited lab with comprehensive QA/QC systems
Troubleshooting & Quality Assurance
Accelevir helps mitigate the most common PBMC quality risks:
- Pre-Analytical Variables: We provide phlebotomy guidance and supply compatible tubes
- Sample Handling Time: Immediate processing or CPT tubes to prevent granulocyte contamination
- Temperature Control: SOPs for 18–25°C processing environment
- Washing Buffers: Calcium/Magnesium-free DPBS with optional BSA/FBS based on assay compatibility
- Cryopreservation Errors: Optimized DMSO concentrations, freezing rates, and cell type compatibility
PBMC Enrichment and Subset Isolation Services
We offer magnetic selection and depletion of PBMC subsets:
- CD4+, CD8+ T cells
- CD19+ B cells
- CD34+ stem cells
- CD138+ plasma cells
- Ready-to-use for Elispot, cytotoxicity, and activation assays
Serum-free generation available for compatibility with functional downstream assays.
Clinical Trial Integration
Accelevir supports clinical development teams with:
- Protocol-specific customization and validation
- Sample accessioning, reporting, and regulatory documentation
- Chain-of-custody management and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance
- Integration of PBMC workflows with immunogenicity, ADA/NAb, and bioanalytical studies
Related Laboratory Services (Interlink Suggested)
- Flow Cytometry Services
- Immunogenicity Testing
- Assay Development
- Molecular Analysis and Genomic Assays
- Primary Cell Derivation
- Cell and Gene Therapy Services
Resources and Learning
- PBMC processing protocols (buff coat and density gradient)
- Cryopreservation and viability SOPs
- Webinars and case studies on PBMC assay integration
- Blog articles covering donor variability, subset enrichment, and troubleshooting
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the typical viability of PBMCs after processing?
Accelevir consistently delivers >90% viability in PBMC isolates, confirmed by automated QC systems.
Can Accelevir handle large PBMC volumes for cell therapy?
Yes. Our lab supports leukopak-scale PBMC isolation, enrichment, and banking with customizable protocols.
What anticoagulants do you support?
We process samples with K2EDTA, LiHeparin, ACD, and CPT tubes, and offer guidance on tube selection.
Do you offer cryopreservation in serum-free media?
Yes. We support cryopreservation using serum-free cryoprotectants ideal for downstream functional assays.
Can PBMCs be enriched for specific subsets?
Absolutely. We offer magnetic enrichment and depletion for immune cell subsets including CD4+, CD8+, CD19+, and CD34+ cells.
Request a Custom PBMC Processing Quote
Start your next study with trusted PBMC lab services. Accelevir’s scientists are ready to support your cell processing, enrichment, and assay needs.