New blood group found after 50 years; discovery to pave the way for safer transfusions
PTC News Desk: NHS scientists have discovered a new blood group system, solving a medical mystery that has baffled experts for 50 years. This finding has the potential to change blood transfusion methods and provide new hope to patients around the world.
Researchers at NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) in South Gloucestershire discovered the MAL blood group. This discovery sheds light on the genetic background of the AnWj antigen, which was discovered in 1972 but had previously gone unexplained. Louise Tilley, a senior researcher who has been working on this topic for 20 years, believes that the new test will significantly improve care for patients with rare blood types.
How it can reduce transfusion risk?
The NHSBT laboratory in Filton has created a world-first test to detect persons who lack the AnWj antigen. This test is critical for patients who may experience adverse reactions to regular blood transfusions. With around 400 rare cases per year, this development offers safer blood matches and lower transfusion risks.
Nicole Thornton, head of the laboratory, stated that unravelling the AnWj mystery was a huge challenge. The new test will be integrated into existing genotyping platforms to help identify AnWj-negative donors and recipients. This development not only highlights the lab's international importance but also opens the door to the discovery of new blood group systems, which will improve patient treatment around the world.
The new discovery is expected to increase blood transfusion safety and effectiveness for patients worldwide.
- With inputs from agencies
