While solving the mystery of 50 years ago, scientists found a completely new blood type

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding the human body, solving a mystery that lasted half a century. Researchers have discovered a new blood group system called MAL, which opens up new horizons in transfusiology and genetics.

The discovery was made during a study of a rare case recorded back in 1972. Back then, a pregnant woman was found to lack the AnWj antigen, which is present in most people. This observation stumped scientists, as the reasons for this phenomenon remained unknown, IFLScience writes, citing a study in the journal Blood.

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Over the next decades, scientists have been trying to solve this mystery. And now, thanks to modern methods of genetic analysis, it has been established that the absence of the AnWj antigen is associated with a mutation in the MAL gene. This gene is responsible for the production of a protein that plays an important role in the formation of red blood cells, the blood cells that carry oxygen.

The discovery of a new blood type is important for medicine. First, it will allow for a more accurate selection of donor blood for transfusion, reducing the risk of complications. Secondly, it opens up new perspectives for the study of genetic blood diseases.

"This discovery is the culmination of many years of research and will allow us to provide better medical care for patients with rare blood types," said Louise Tilley, Senior Research Scientist at the IBGRL Red Cell Reference at NHS Blood and Transplant.

As a reminder, in May 29024, archaeologists found the burial place of the mysterious Anglo-Saxon King Cerdic.

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