Plasma Protein Fraction (PPF) is prepared primarily through a method called cold alcohol fractionation, followed by a heat inactivation step to enhance safety.
The Preparation Process
The preparation of Plasma Protein Fraction involves specific steps to isolate and purify certain proteins from human plasma.
Cold Alcohol Fractionation
The core method used for preparing PPF is cold alcohol fractionation. This process involves adding increasing concentrations of cold ethanol to plasma at controlled pH levels and temperatures. Different proteins precipitate out of the solution at different ethanol concentrations, temperatures, and pH levels. By carefully controlling these conditions, various protein fractions, including the one used for PPF, can be selectively separated from the plasma.
Heat Inactivation
Following the initial fractionation, the product undergoes heat inactivation. This crucial step involves heating the solution to a specific temperature for a set period. The primary purpose of heat inactivation is to significantly reduce the risk of viral transmission, making the final product safer for therapeutic use. This inactivation process contributes to the high safety profile of albumin-containing products like PPF.
Composition of PPF
Plasma Protein Fraction is considered a less purified product compared to highly purified albumin solutions. Based on the preparation method, its typical composition is:
- Albumin: Approximately 83%
- Globulins: Approximately 17%
- Other Proteins: Contains other plasma proteins in smaller amounts.
This composition distinguishes PPF from pure albumin products, providing a mixture of proteins derived from plasma.
Summary of Key Steps
Here’s a quick overview of the main preparation steps:
- Cold Alcohol Fractionation: Separation of protein fractions using cold ethanol.
- Heat Inactivation: Heating to reduce the risk of viral contamination.
This two-step process ensures that PPF is both isolated from plasma and treated to enhance its safety before being used clinically.
