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Enzymatic removal of group A and group B antigens: how close are we to a universal blood supply?

A recent report of progress in the effort to create a universal blood supply is receiving a lot of press (BBC, LA Times). The journal reports the use of enzymatic cleavage of group A and group B antigens to leave "group O" blood. Such a process, if approved for processing donated human blood, might permit the conversion of non-O RBCs to group O RBCs and alleviate the shortage of group O RBCs. The process as currently described would not affect Rh type or the compatibility of platelets or FFP. In addition, shortages of platelets (and plasma) would not be alleviated.

It is not known how long into the future we will need to wait before these enzymes are approved for routine use. While we wait, some questions that need to be addressed might include:

  • Are the results of the study reproducable (does it really work)?
  • Is the process cost-effective at manufacturing scales?
  • Is the process safe for use on donated human blood?
  • Does the enzyme affect other proteins in such a way that recipients make antibodies?

The Editors's wonder if colleagues wish to share other perspectives?

Please submit comments to the e-Network Forum.

Ira A. Shulman, MD
CBBS e-Network Forum Editor & Moderator

W. Tait Stevens, MD
CBBS e-Network Forum Assistant Editor & Moderator
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Posted: April 4, 2007

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