The complement proteins that circulate in our blood are an important part of our immune system. They help identify bacteria, viruses and other harmful organisms, making it easier for our white blood ...

Red blood cells are important mediators of the innate immune system. Depending on the cellular environment, these cells either activate the immune system or maintain the system in a dormant state. In ...

A key diagnostic step in disease detection is analyzing blood components. Accurate separation of blood cells from plasma, which holds proteins and other constituents, is crucial in many assays. First ...

Transfusion Alter Transfusion Med. 2008;10(3):92-101. The initial storage temperature of whole blood determines which components can be produced from it (Figure 1). Because platelet function rapidly ...

Capillaries are very tiny blood vessels — so small that a single red blood cell can barely fit through them. They help to connect your arteries and veins in addition to facilitating the exchange of ...

Plasma is the liquid component of your blood. Also known as blood plasma, it makes up about 55% of your blood and has a light yellow color. When you donate blood, the plasma can be separated out and ...