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Artificial blood developed for patients of any blood type, researchers say (asahi.com)

476 points by ausjke · 2567 days ago · 105 comments on HN

Article summary

Researchers have developed artificial blood that can be used for patients of any blood type. The artificial blood has been tested on rabbits and has the potential to revolutionize the field of medicine. If successful, it could eliminate the need for blood donations and plasma collection. The storage requirements for the artificial blood are also different from natural blood, with a longer shelf life at room temperature.

Main themes

  • artificial blood
  • blood donation
  • medical breakthrough
  • storage and logistics
  • religious and ethical implications

What commenters say

  • Artificial blood could potentially replace the entire blood donation and plasma collection system, solving the problem of blood shortages and making blood more accessible in emergency situations.
  • The development of artificial blood raises questions about its potential impact on the pool of bone marrow donors and the logistics of blood storage and distribution.
  • Some people believe that artificial blood could be accepted by religious groups that currently reject blood transfusions, while others argue that it may still be rejected due to its derivation from blood or other ethical concerns.
  • The artificial blood may not have the same rejuvenating effects as young blood, and its potential benefits and limitations are still being researched and debated.
  • The cost and effectiveness of artificial blood will be crucial in determining its impact on the current blood donation system and its potential to improve patient outcomes.
  • Artificial blood could change the face of surgery and emergency medicine, allowing for more flexible and effective treatment options, but it also raises concerns about its potential to disrupt the immune system and other bodily functions.
  • The development of artificial blood highlights the complexities and challenges of working with human blood, including the risk of immune reactions and the need for careful testing and regulation.