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A research team at Nara Medical University in Japan has successfully developed a novel form of artificial blood that can be used for patients of any blood type without the need for compatibility testing. This innovative blood substitute is created using hemoglobin extracted from expired donor blood, which is then encapsulated within a virus-free shell designed to mimic the structure and function of natural red blood cells.
One of the most significant advantages of this artificial blood is its extended shelf life. Unlike conventional donated blood, which can only be stored for up to 42 days, this artificial product can be stored at room temperature for up to two years, and refrigerated for as long as five years. This improvement could greatly enhance blood storage logistics and availability, particularly in emergency or remote settings.
Early-phase human clinical trials have demonstrated promising results, with participants experiencing only mild side effects. If ongoing research continues to yield positive outcomes, this next-generation blood product could become available for clinical use in hospitals by 2030.
This breakthrough represents a major step forward in transfusion medicine, offering the potential to alleviate blood shortages and improve patient care worldwide.
