Each individual belongs to one of four blood groups: A, B, AB, or O. These groups are classified based on the presence or absence of specific antigens and antibodies. Antigens are markers located on the surface of red blood cells, while antibodies are found in the blood plasma. For example, blood type A has A antigens on the red blood cells and B antibodies in the plasma, whereas blood type B has B antigens and A antibodies.
Antigens serve as part of the body’s natural defense system, identifying foreign substances and triggering the immune system’s response. Another important factor in blood typing is the Rhesus (Rh) factor, a protein that may be present on the surface of red blood cells. If the Rh factor is present, the blood type is classified as positive; if absent, it is classified as negative. The Rh factor, along with the ABO group, determines which blood types an individual can safely donate to or receive from.
The “universal donor” blood type is O-negative, meaning it can be safely donated to all individuals in need of a blood transfusion, because it lacks antigens that could trigger an immune response. Conversely, type AB-positive is known as the “universal recipient” because it can receive blood from all other types without adverse reactions, as it has no antibodies to attack foreign antigens. However, the strict criteria for blood donations pose challenges and limitations, especially when demand is high. Fortunately, a group of scientists is working to address this issue by discovering special enzymes capable of converting blood types A, B, and AB into universal donor blood, potentially making transfusions more accessible for everyone.
A group of researchers from DTU and Lund University has published a groundbreaking study in Nature Microbiology. Their discovery reveals that certain microbes in the gut can break down sugars in the intestine—a process comparable to the removal of sugar-based antigens found on red blood cells. This breakthrough could enable the conversion of A, B, or AB blood types into universal O-type blood by effectively removing these antigens, a potentially game-changing technique for blood transfusions.
Theoretically, this revolutionary approach shows great promise, but it still needs to be tested on real humans. The scientists aim to advance their research through clinical trials. If successful, it could address the global blood shortage and save countless lives.
Roselle Torres
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