Researchers

Uppsala BioLab receives patient samples for research purposes and stores all submitted material in Uppsala Biobank to support current and future cancer research.

Bone marrow aspirates and peripheral blood samples are processed to isolate mononuclear leukocytes using Ficoll-Paque® density gradient centrifugation. This method separates cells according to their density, allowing high-density red blood cells to settle at the bottom of the centrifuge tube while mononuclear leukocytes form a distinct layer in the middle. The isolated leukocytes are washed in phosphate buffer and cryopreserved in a protective freezing medium to maintain cell viability.

The proportion of malignant cells is determined by flow cytometry and recorded in the laboratory data system. DNA and RNA extracted from bone marrow or blood samples with a high proportion of malignant cells represent valuable resources for advanced cancer research. When bone marrow material is limited, peripheral blood samples with a high malignant cell content may also be suitable for analysis.

To maximize research value, samples are divided into aliquots for use in multiple research projects. Data and knowledge generated from previous analyses are shared whenever possible, helping to extend the usefulness of the biobank’s resources and support a wider range of scientific studies.

Cells are stored in liquid nitrogen at −198°C in cryogenic freezers, where they can remain viable for many years with minimal impact on their biological properties.