A rapid single centrifugation step method for the separation of erythrocytes, granulocytes and mononuclear cells on continuous density gradients of Percoll.

A simple rapid method of separating mononuclear leucocytes, granulocytes and erythrocytes on continuous Percoll density gradients has been developed. The Percoll is mixed with increasing amounts of the blood, which forms the light phase of the gradient. Centrifugation at 400 X g for 30 min results in almost complete separation of the 3 groups of cells with high recoveries and degrees of purity. Blood samples from 3 patients with chronic granulomatous disease were separated with this technique and the pattern of cell separation was found to be different from normal.