Scientists have discovered a new blood group after 50 years

NHS scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying a new blood group system, solving a medical mystery that has persisted for over 50 years. This advancement could greatly enhance blood transfusion safety and precision, reducing adverse reactions from incompatible blood types. The discovery offers fresh insights into human biology and paves the way for more personalized treatments. This development promises to improve care and outcomes for patients globally, especially those needing frequent or complex transfusions.

NHS Scientists Unveil New Blood Group, Enhancing Transfusion Safety and Treatment

Scientists at NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) in South Gloucestershire have made a significant discovery by identifying the MAL blood group. This finding clarifies the genetic basis of the AnWj antigen, discovered in 1972 but long unexplained. The MAL blood group now reveals the mechanism behind this antigen, which has been associated with transfusion complications in rare instances.

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Louise Tilley, a senior researcher who has dedicated 20 years to this project, highlighted the importance of this discovery.She emphasized that the new test will significantly enhance the care and safety of patients with rare or hard-to-match blood types. By improving precision in blood matching, the MAL blood group identification could lead to more effective treatments for those who need complex transfusions. This advancement promises to further the development of personalized medical care.

The NHSBT lab in Filton has created a groundbreaking test to identify individuals who lack the AnWj antigen. This test is vital for patients at risk of adverse reactions to regular blood transfusions. With approximately 400 rare cases annually, the new development aims to provide safer blood matches and minimize transfusion-related risks.

Nicole Thornton, head of the laboratory, emphasized that uncovering the AnWj mystery was a major challenge. The new test will be added to existing genotyping platforms to identify both donors and recipients who are genetically AnWj-negative. This breakthrough highlights the lab’s global importance and opens the door to discovering new blood group systems. It is expected to improve the safety and effectiveness of blood transfusions for patients worldwide.

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