Peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Our research-ready immune cells are powerful tools across multiple research areas.

What are peripheral blood mononuclear cells?

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are blood‑derived immune cells with a single, round nucleus. They play a key role in both innate and adaptive immunity and support a broad range of scientific and clinical research, including:

  • Immune system behaviour
  • Stem cell and cancer biology
  • Pain and inflammation research
  • Disease mechanisms and pathophysiology
  • Vaccine development and immunogenicity
Image of 3 PBMC cells showing single nucleui

NCI's PMBC service

NCI's purified PBMC service enhances the value of every donation by using residual donated materials with donor consent, to support: 

  • Research and development
  • Non‑identifiable genetic analysis
  • Laboratory stability and quality‑assurance programmes
  • Biochemical assay and reagent development
  • Education and training initiatives

PBMC formats 

We offer two formats:

  • fresh purified 
  • frozen purified

Product codes and descriptions

NC61 - fresh cone standard cell count (≥5x10^8)

NC62 - fresh cone standard cell count (≥5x10^8)

NC63 - frozen high cell count (≥8x10^8)

NC64 - frozen / vial (5x10^7) 

NC65 - frozen / vial (2.5x10^7) 

NC67 - frozen buffy coat (2x10^8)

NC68- fresh buffy coat (2x10^8)

PBMC laboratories

Our experienced scientists follow a predetermined, standardised specification for cell count, and viability in a laboratory which operates under Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). Frozen PBMC banking activities are supported by Human Tissue Authority (HTA) licensing at our Filton site.  

The laboratories are Research and Development (R&D), non-GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) facilities.

Why choose NCI PBMCs?

NCI’s technical knowledge and expertise to isolate PBMCs to a predetermined product quality, which is easily available through NHSBT’s existing operational infrastructure, supports quick and reliable turnaround for customer requests while reducing customer expense, laboratory time and resources required.  

How to request PBMCs

To request pricing or apply for an approved account, please email nciadmin@nhsbt.nhs.uk. NHSBT operates under Commercial In Confidence (CIC) principles, however, we can consider confidentiality agreements for bespoke or new supply chains.

 

Page last updated: 26 May 2026