Accuracy and Reproducibility of Stem Cell Side Population Measurements on Clinically Relevant Products

Abstract

In this study, we show that there is great variability in SP cell numbers when aliquots obtained either from leukapheresis or bone marrow products represent about 1% of the total product volume. In contrast, when aliquots represented about 12% of the total product volume SP cells measurements were consistent. The high cell number of some specimens can be a limitation for the accurate identification and isolation of the SP compartment. Aliquots containing a minimum of 55 × 10(6) cells should be used for statistical significance.