Scientists discover a new blood group

Scientists from the UK have made a significant breakthrough in blood group research. The mystery surrounding the AnWj antigen, which had remained unsolved for over 50 years, has been uncovered as a result of detailed studies.

As a result of collaborative research conducted by the University of Bristol, NHS Blood and Transplant, and the NHSBT International Blood Group Reference Laboratory, a new blood group system called MAL has been identified. This discovery paves the way for new treatment possibilities for patients with rare blood types.

While people are generally familiar with blood types recognized by the ABO and Rh systems, there are many more types of proteins and sugars covering the blood cells in our bodies. These are known as antigens, which can lead to serious reactions during blood transfusions. The newly discovered MAL blood group is among these rare systems.

The mystery of the AnWj antigen, which was first identified in 1972 but whose genetic structure remained unsolved, was finally clarified by research conducted in 2022. This condition, known as AnWj-negative and affecting a very small number of people, is now better understood thanks to the MAL blood group system. This development will enable safer treatment for patients with the rare AnWj-negative blood type.

Researchers have determined that the AnWj antigen, which was found to be missing in a patient in 1972, is present in 99.9% of the population. It was established that this antigen is found particularly in myelin and lymphocyte proteins, and the newly discovered system has been named the MAL blood group. It was revealed that individuals with mutations in the MAL genes are AnWj negative.

The discovery of this blood group will facilitate the identification and treatment of patients with rare blood types. This research also determined that AnWj-negative individuals could experience serious health problems in the event of incorrect blood transfusions.

This new discovery has revealed that the AnWj antigen belongs to the MAL blood group system, which is the 47th blood group system. Individuals who are genetically AnWj-negative can experience severe reactions during incorrect blood transfusions. This discovery is considered a life-saving step, as it will enable the identification of individuals with rare blood types.

Louise Tilley, a hematologist at NHS Blood and Transplant, stated that this discovery solves a 50-year-old mystery, adding, "This achievement is the result of long-term teamwork." Tilley emphasized that this discovery will pave the way for new, life-saving genetic tests for patients with rare blood types.

This discovery is considered a promising step for individuals with health issues related to blood diseases and rare blood types. The NHS Blood and Transplant team has made a major advancement in the field of healthcare by offering new treatment and diagnostic possibilities.