Technicalities of Human Serum & Plasma

When comparing human serum to various types of plasma, such as K2, K3, and STRECK Plasma, it's essential to understand the differences in their composition, preparation methods, and applications in biomedical research and clinical diagnostics.

1. Human Serum

  • Serum is the clear, yellowish fluid that remains after blood has clotted and the clot has been removed.

  • It contains various proteins, electrolytes, hormones, antibodies, and other small molecules, making it a rich source of biomarkers for disease diagnosis and monitoring.

  • Serum is commonly used in clinical laboratories for various diagnostic tests, including liver function tests, lipid profiles, and hormone assays.

  • It is often used in research settings for studying biomarkers, drug metabolism, and immune responses.

2. K2 and K3 Plasma

  • K2 and K3 refer to different types of anticoagulants used to prevent blood clotting in plasma samples.

  • K2 typically contains EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) as the anticoagulant, while K3 contains citrate.

  • Plasma prepared with K2 or K3 is used in various clinical and research applications where anticoagulated samples are required.

  • These plasma samples are commonly used for tests such as complete blood counts (CBC), coagulation studies, and some molecular diagnostic assays.

3. STRECK Plasma

  • STRECK Plasma is a type of plasma preparation that incorporates proprietary stabilizers to maintain sample integrity and preserve analyte stability.

  • It is designed to provide consistent and reliable results for laboratory testing, particularly in molecular diagnostics and research applications.

  • TRECK Plasma is often used when long-term sample storage or shipping is required, as the stabilizers help prevent degradation of biomolecules.

  • This type of plasma is valuable in settings where sample quality and stability are critical, such as biobanking, clinical trials, and reference laboratories.

In summary, while human serum and various types of plasma serve as important biological specimens for diagnostic and research purposes, they differ in their composition, preparation methods, and applications. Human serum is obtained after blood clotting and is rich in proteins and other biomarkers, while plasma samples are anticoagulated and used for specific tests requiring intact cells or coagulation factors. STRECK Plasma, with its specialized stabilizers, offers enhanced sample stability and is particularly useful in settings requiring prolonged storage or transportation of samples. Choosing the appropriate specimen type depends on the specific requirements of the intended assay or study protocol.