The separation of different cell classes from lymphoid organs. VI. The effect of osmolarity of gradient media on the density distribution of cells.

Abstract

Ficoll, a polymer of sucrose, and bovine serum albumin have been compared as media for preparation of density gradients for separation of lymphoid cells. Direct vapour pressure osmometer measurements demonstrated that Ficoll at high concentrations has a marked effect on the osmolarity of the medium in which it is dissolved. Albumin, prepared in the manner we have described in earlier papers of this series, has no effect, and density gradients prepared with this albumin do not contain gradients of osmolarity.