THE EFFECT OF STORAGE CONDITIONS ON ISOLATED LYMPHOCYTE VIABILITY

Objective: The effect of storage conditions on isolated lymphocyte viability is a critical factor for the long-term preservation of cells. Lymphocytes are essential cells of the immune system and are often isolated and stored in laboratory environments for different research topics such as chronic diseases, including cancer. This storage process must be conducted under suitable conditions to preserve the cells' physiological and biochemical properties. In this context, determining the effects of storage conditions on the viability of isolated lymphocytes is crucial for obtaining accurate results in research. Material and Method: This research investigates whether storage conditions affect DNA damage in human lymphocyte samples. Whole blood and isolated lymphocytes were stored at two different temperatures (-20°C and -80°C) for 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Additionally, for each time point, some of the lymphocytes stored under different temperature conditions were preserved in a cryopreservation solution containing 10% DMSO, while others were stored directly. The aim of this study is to contribute to various research areas, such as human biomonitoring studies, where lymphocytes are used, by evaluating lymphocyte viability under different storage conditions and time periods. Result and Discussion: According to the findings of our study, the survival rate of lymphocytes was higher under storage conditions at -80°C. Additionally, it can be stated that storing lymphocytes at -80°C with a cryopreservation solution (10% DMSO) provides a more suitable strategy for preserving lymphocyte integrity.