Question

Should you lyse RBCs before freezing?

Answer 1

When freezing red blood cells, it is recommended to lyse them first to prevent damage to the cells. Lysing the RBCs releases their contents and allows for more effective freezing. Lysed RBCs can be used for various purposes after freezing.

Step-by-step explanation:

When freezing red blood cells (RBCs), it is generally recommended to lyse them first. This is because when RBCs are frozen without being lysed, the ice crystals that form during freezing can cause damage to the cell membrane, leading to cell rupture and loss of cellular contents. However, by lysing the RBCs before freezing, the cellular contents are released, and the cells can freeze more effectively without damage. After freezing, the lysed RBCs can be used for various purposes such as studying intracellular components or conducting experiments. Overall, lysing RBCs before freezing helps preserve the integrity of the cells and their contents.

Answer 2

Yes, it is generally advisable to lyse red blood cells (RBCs) before freezing samples. This helps prevent damage to the cells during the freezing and thawing processes, preserving sample integrity.

Step-by-step explanation:

In general, it is advisable to lyse (break down) red blood cells (RBCs) before freezing samples. Freezing intact RBCs can lead to the formation of ice crystals, which may damage the cell membrane and compromise the integrity of the sample. Lysing the RBCs before freezing releases hemoglobin and reduces the risk of artifacts or changes in sample characteristics during freezing and thawing processes.

However, the need for RBC lysis can depend on the specific experimental or clinical requirements. Some assays or analyses may tolerate intact RBCs, while others may necessitate their removal. Researchers and clinicians should consider the nature of the study, the type of samples, and the downstream applications to determine whether RBC lysis is appropriate before freezing.