Convert blood groups A and B into groups for everyone

Converting 2 blood groups A and B into groups for everyone will be possible in the next few years. According to the French National Research Institute of Science (CNRS), an American company and a French laboratory identified two enzymes capable of altering antigens.

Blood type O is known to be a given group because it is possible to transmit blood to all blood groups A, B, AB and O. Conversely, if blood type A transmits blood to blood group B or vice versa can be deadly. According to CNRS, mistakes have caused many deaths each year.

US ZymeQuest biotech company identified two enzymes that allow galactose molecules (N-acetylgalactosamine) to be present on the surface of red blood cells. These molecules characterize the antigens of Groups A and B, while Group O does not have the antigen of the ABO system.

The ZymeQuest researchers then collaborated with France's Biomolecular Engineering and Functional Laboratory to prepare a solution of these enzymes and inject them into blood vessels. The enzyme works within 1 hour, then is removed, so the blood clots no longer contain antigens.

Zyme Quest has developed devices that can handle dozens of blood bags simultaneously. The treatment process is currently in clinical trials for blood type B and must wait 3 to 5 years to be recognized.

According to the study author, Gerlind Sulzenbacher of the French laboratory, this finding may help resolve anemia anemia by converting all the stored blood into a blood group for everyone.