Effects of cryopreservation with polyethylene glycol on the expression of CD11b and CD62L on the surface of polymorphonuclear leukocytes

In experimental and clinical studies, expression of surface adhesion molecules such as ?2-integrine (CD11b) and L-selectin (CD62L) on polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) are investigated to assess certain crucial innate immune functions. Because the expression of CD11b and CD62L on PMNL can alter they cannot be quantified reliably when the time between blood draw and measurements is prolonged. Goals of this study were to test effects of cryopreservation on the expression of CD11b and CD62L on human PMNLs either under native conditions as well as after stimulation-dependant adhesion molecules′ expression pattern. CD11b and CD62L expression on PMNL can be cryopreserved with 10% of PEG-solution for at least one month at -60 degree C. This was observed in native, unstimulated as well as in stimulated cell-preparations. CD11b is very stable in contrast to CD62L expression which appears to be more susceptible to alteration due to freezing-thawing. However, the relative stimulus-dependant changes of activation can still be reflected.