Human whole blood collected with sodium citrate is a complex biological matrix containing erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets, plasma proteins, metabolites, and other circulating components. Citrate prevents coagulation primarily by chelating ionized calcium (Ca²⁺), thereby inhibiting calcium-dependent coagulation reactions. Buffered trisodium citrate at approximately 3.2% (0.109 mol/L; 109 mmol/L) is widely used in research involving coagulation, hemostasis, and platelet biology. For coagulation studies, maintaining the appropriate blood-to-anticoagulant ratio, typically 9:1, is critical because deviations can influence assay results.

Key Features

• Sample Type : Human whole blood, including peripheral venous blood when specified.

• Anticoagulant : Sodium citrate (typically buffered trisodium citrate).

• Matrix : Cellular and plasma compartments maintained together.

• Mechanism : Reversible chelation of ionized calcium.

• Preanalytical Considerations : Citrate concentration, blood-to-anticoagulant ratio, collection technique, temperature, handling, and time to analysis can influence coagulation and platelet measurements.

Usual Research Uses

• Coagulation and Hemostasis Research.

• Platelet Activation and Aggregation Studies.

• Platelet Flow Cytometry.

• Thrombosis and Cardiovascular Research.

• Preparation of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP).