Influence of Sample Type and Storage Conditions on Soluble CD40 Ligand Assessment

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Abstract
Background: Several studies have consistently shown that soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) concentrations are increased in patients with acute coronary syndromes and can serve as a biomarker for risk stratification. However, few data are available on preanalytic conditions that impact sCD40L values. Thus, the aim of our prospective study was to evaluate the impact of sampling techniques and storage conditions on sCD40L concentrations. Methods: We included a total of 30 patients with no, stable, or unstable coronary heart disease. Blood samples were collected in gel-filled tubes without additives, in EDTA-filled tubes, and in citrate-filled tubes and were kept at various storage conditions. Results: Median (interquartile range) sCD40L values at baseline were higher in serum samples [5.29 (3.89–6.33) μg/L] than in either EDTA plasma [0.78 (0.39–1.12) μg/L; P P P P Conclusion: Plasma, but not serum, samples are appropriate for sCD40L measurements. In general, preanalytic conditions are critical in the assessment of sCD40L concentrations and thus should be carefully considered for future studies.