What is the buffy coat composed of in an anticoagulated tube?

Composition of Buffy Coat

The buffy coat refers to a thin, pale layer found in a centrifuged blood sample. This layer is composed of leukocytes (white blood cells) and platelets, which both play critical roles in the body's immune response and blood clotting processes, respectively. The buffy coat sits between the heavier red blood cells (erythrocytes) at the bottom of the tube and the plasma, which is the liquid component of the blood at the top.

Role in Immune Response and Blood Clotting

Contrary to the true or false statement, the buffy coat does not consist of the blood's proteins but rather the aforementioned cellular components. Leukocytes are key players in the body's immune response, helping to fight off infections and diseases. Platelets, on the other hand, are essential for blood clotting.

During the blood clotting process, platelets and clotting factors such as fibrinogen interact to form a fibrin clot, which helps prevent blood loss and allows wounds to heal. Without these essential components found in the buffy coat, the body's ability to respond to injuries and infections would be compromised.