Scientists find new blood group called MAL

Scientists from NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) and the University of Bristol have made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying a new blood group system named MAL. This breakthrough addresses a mystery that has persisted for nearly 50 years concerning the AnWj blood group antigen, first noticed in 1972.

Senior research scientist Louise Tilley led the team that developed a genetic test to identify patients lacking the AnWj antigen. This test will improve care for patients with rare blood requirements and assist in finding compatible donors. Tilley commented to BBC, “It's challenging to quantify the exact number of people who will benefit from this test. However, NHSBT is the last resort for around 400 patients each year worldwide.”

The discovery's implications are extensive, providing benefits to patients worldwide. NHSBT's International Blood Group Reference Laboratory in Filton supports research by supplying antibodies and has created a test to integrate into current genotyping platforms.

New Blood Group: Key Findings of the Research:

1. **AnWj Antigen:** Scientists determined the genetic basis of the AnWj antigen, enhancing understanding and treatment options for individuals lacking this blood group.
2. **MAL Blood Group System:** MAL is now recognized as the 47th blood group system, encompassing the AnWj antigen.
3. **Genetic Cause:** Researchers linked homozygous deletions in the MAL gene to the inherited AnWj-negative phenotype.
4. **Transfusion Safety:** The study aids the creation of new genotyping tests to identify rare AnWj-negative individuals, decreasing complications during transfusions.

Blood group antigens are proteins on red blood cells, and their absence can cause severe reactions in transfusions. Philip Brown, a laboratory technician and leukemia survivor, emphasized the discovery's significance. “Having undergone multiple blood transfusions and a bone marrow transplant, I understand firsthand the critical need for safer blood matches,” Brown told BBC.

Nicole Thornton, Head of the Laboratory, highlighted the global importance of this discovery. “Unraveling the genetic basis of the AnWj antigen has been a major challenge. With this breakthrough, we can now design genotyping tests to identify patients and donors with this rare antigen,” Thornton explained.

(Source: Research conducted by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) and the University of Bristol.)