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  • Japan Launches Trials of Artificial Blood that Works with all Blood Types

    Japan Launches Trials of Artificial Blood that Works with all Blood Types

    Japan is preparing to take a major step forward in medicine, as clinical trials of artificial blood that works with all blood types are set to begin this year at Nara Medical University. The research could reshape healthcare by changing how hospitals manage transfusions worldwide.
    Image Credits::cff

    Japan is preparing to take a major step forward in medicine, as clinical trials of artificial blood that works with all blood types are set to begin this year at Nara Medical University. The research could reshape healthcare by changing how hospitals manage transfusions worldwide.

    The goal is to create a universal synthetic blood that eliminates compatibility testing and expands supply. It builds on 2022 experiments with “hemoglobin vesicles,” tiny particles that carry oxygen like red blood cells. Trials in rabbits showed results comparable to real blood, without serious side effects.

    Longer Shelf Life and Greater Accessibility

    In addition to working for all blood types, artificial blood stores at room temperature for over a year, while donated human blood requires refrigeration and expires quickly. This could make the technology especially valuable in remote areas, disaster zones, and regions affected by conflict.

    The next phase will involve human volunteers, who will receive between 100 and 400 milliliters of the artificial blood as researchers assess its safety. The long-term goal is to make the product widely available in hospitals by 2030.

    This technology could help address one of the greatest challenges facing healthcare systems globally: blood shortages. Many countries struggle to maintain adequate supplies through voluntary donations alone, particularly in lower-income regions. Even in wealthier nations, patients with rare blood types often face difficulties finding compatible donors.

    Addressing Blood Shortages in an Aging Society

    Japan, which has an aging population and a declining birth rate, already faces growing pressure on its blood supply. Researchers are developing artificial blood from hemoglobin taken from expired donations, sealed to prevent immune reactions.

    Another promising method uses hemoglobin wrapped in proteins known as albumins. Animal studies have shown that this approach can help maintain blood pressure and may prove useful in treating conditions such as severe bleeding and stroke.

    According to the World Health Organization, more than 100 countries rely on imported blood products, which can limit care for patients with serious medical needs. A stable, universal synthetic blood could provide a lasting solution to this global issue.

    Project leader Professor Hiromi Sakai says the advances could secure a stable, long-lasting blood supply with less reliance on donations. If successful, Japan could lead one of the century’s biggest medical breakthroughs.

    Read the original article on:cff

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  • New Blood Type Discovered After 50 Years

    New Blood Type Discovered After 50 Years

    In 1972, a pregnant woman’s blood sample puzzled scientists when it lacked a surface molecule present on all known red blood cells.
    Image Credits: Pixabay

    In 1972, a pregnant woman’s blood sample puzzled scientists when it lacked a surface molecule present on all known red blood cells.

    Over 50 years later, UK and Israeli researchers identified a new human blood group, published in 2024.

    A Breakthrough Decades in the Making

    “This milestone crowns years of collaboration,” said NHS hematologist Louise Tilley, who dedicated nearly two decades to solving the mystery. “It allows us to provide better care for rare but significant patients.”

    Watch the video below for a summary of their discovery:

    Most people know the ABO and Rh systems, but many other blood groups exist, defined by different proteins and sugars on red blood cells.

    Our bodies use these antigen molecules, among other functions, as identification markers to distinguish between our own cells and potentially harmful foreign ones.

    Blood type (or blood group) is determined, in part, by the ABO blood group antigens present on red blood cells. Antibodies in our blood plasma detect when a foreign antigen marker is present. (InvictaHOG/Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons)

    If these markers don’t align during a blood transfusion, the procedure meant to save a life can trigger severe reactions or even be deadly.

    Researchers discovered most major blood groups in the early 20th century.

    Discoveries Few and Far Between

    Researchers have recently identified blood groups like the Er system in 2022, found in only a few individuals — just like this newly discovered group.

    “Tilley explained that studying such rare genetic cases made the research challenging.”

    Image Credits:Transfusion reactions can be severe. (baseimage/Canva)

    Earlier studies showed that over 99.9% of people have the AnWj antigen missing from the 1972 patient’s blood. Researchers linked it to a myelin and lymphocyte protein and named it the MAL blood group.

    People with mutations in both MAL gene copies have an AnWj-negative blood type, like the 1972 patient. Yet, Tilley’s team found three AnWj-negative cases without the mutation, suggesting some blood disorders can suppress the antigen.

    Unraveling the Mystery of the MAL Protein

    “MAL is a small, complex protein that was hard to identify, requiring multiple investigations to confirm,” said Tim Satchwell of the University of the West of England.

    After decades of research, scientists confirmed the gene by adding a normal MAL gene to AnWj-negative cells, restoring the antigen.

    The MAL protein is known to help maintain cell membrane stability and support cellular transport. Earlier studies also revealed that the AnWj antigen is absent in newborns but develops shortly after birth.

    A Shared Mutation Without Other Health Effects

    All AnWj-negative patients in the study shared the same mutation, but researchers found no link to other cellular abnormalities or diseases.

    With MAL mutation markers identified, doctors can tell if an AnWj-negative type is inherited or caused by suppression, possibly signaling another condition.

    Understanding rare blood variations is vital for better care and saving lives.

    Read the original article on:Sciencealert

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  • Scientists Develop a Universal Kidney Compatible With Every Blood Type

    Scientists Develop a Universal Kidney Compatible With Every Blood Type

    The presence of different blood types is one of the more troublesome aspects of human biology—providing little benefit while complicating many medical procedures. Blood type compatibility already limits simple blood donations, and the challenge becomes even greater when it comes to organ transplants.
    Image Credits:UBC/Nature Biomedical Engineering

    The presence of different blood types is one of the more troublesome aspects of human biology—providing little benefit while complicating many medical procedures. Blood type compatibility already limits simple blood donations, and the challenge becomes even greater when it comes to organ transplants.

    Scientists Convert Type-A Kidney into Universal Type-O Organ

    In a groundbreaking study, scientists have reported success in converting a Type-A donor kidney into a universal Type-O organ. The procedure, performed on a clinically brain-dead patient, produced highly promising results. While there’s still progress to be made, this marks a remarkable milestone for the first transplant of its kind.

    The method employs an enzyme known for its ability to “cut away” antigen groups from the surface of red blood cells. When applied thoroughly, this enzyme can effectively transform any blood type into O-negative blood.

    Image Credits:UBC/Nature Biomedical Engineering

    Researchers used hypothermic perfusion to circulate an enzyme solution through the donor kidney, converting it to Type O-negative before transplanting it into the test patient, who also received the enzyme.

    The procedure resulted in the kidney functioning successfully for several days without the use of the immunosuppressive treatments normally required for transplants. This approach could greatly reduce strain on the patient’s health and significantly lower the risk of secondary infections.

    Potential for Gene Therapy to Enhance Kidney Adaptation

    By the third day, the kidney showed minor Type-A activity as the body adapted, suggesting future versions of the technique could use gene therapy to let the kidney produce its own blood type–altering enzymes.

    The demand for such innovations is immense. About 11 people die each day waiting for a kidney among 90,000 on transplant lists. Making any kidney compatible wouldn’t end the shortage but could greatly ease it.

    Ultimately, the true long-term solution may lie in growing entirely new kidneys, but that remains many years away. In the meantime, advances like this could save countless lives.

    Read the original article on: Extremetech

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  • Researchers Create a 3D Embryo Model that Makes Blood Cells

    Researchers Create a 3D Embryo Model that Makes Blood Cells

    Image Credits:observador

    A group of UK scientists has developed a 3D embryo model that reproduces certain aspects of early human development, including blood cell formation, EFE reported Monday.

    “Our model recreates the process of human fetal blood development—the blood that circulates in a baby during pregnancy—within the lab,” explained a cell biologist from the Gurdon Institute at the University of Cambridge.

    Hematoids Offer New Insights Into Early Blood Development

    The hematoids, a 3D model, show “great potential” for advancing the understanding of how blood develops in the early stages of human growth.

    According to University of Cambridge researchers, these new structures can also mimic diseases such as leukemia and generate long-lasting blood stem cells suitable for transplants. Stem cells are unique in their ability to divide without limit.

    Published in Cell Reports, the model—designed to resemble a human embryo—recreates the cellular transformations that take place in early development, when organs and the blood system first begin to form.

    From Germ Layers to Blood Formation

    By the second day, the hematoids had organized into the three germ layers—ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm—fundamental for embryonic development. These layers “are key to forming all organs and tissues, including blood,” EFE reported. By day eight, cardiac cells appeared, marking the beginning of heart formation in a human embryo. On day 13, the researchers observed red blood spots in the hematoids, closely resembling the developmental stages of human embryos, according to the University of Cambridge.

    The team also devised a method showing that hematoid-derived blood stem cells can mature into various blood cell types, including immune cells such as T cells, which defend the body against infections and abnormalities.

    The university emphasized, however, that hematoids are still in the early research phase and differ significantly from real human embryos. They lack several embryonic tissues, the yolk sac that nourishes the embryo, and the placenta. Importantly, the researchers confirmed that these 3D structures cannot develop into actual embryos.

    Read the original article on: Observador Pt

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  • Coffee Drinkers May Have Reduced Blood Quality

    Coffee Drinkers May Have Reduced Blood Quality

    Your morning coffee may do more than just wake you up—it might also weaken donated blood. A recent large study reveals that caffeine reduces the quality of red blood cells, which can make transfusions less effective, particularly for patients who rely on them the most.
    Image Credits: Caffeine can lower the quality of donated blood used in life-saving transfusions
    GPT-5

    Your morning coffee may do more than just wake you up—it might also weaken donated blood. A recent large study reveals that caffeine reduces the quality of red blood cells, which can make transfusions less effective, particularly for patients who rely on them the most.

    Worldwide, around one billion people—about 12.6% of the global population—drink coffee. People around the world consume over 2.25 billion cups of coffee each day, giving a caffeine boost to roughly 12.6% of the global population.

    While caffeine has generally been shown to have health benefits, a new study led by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus reveals that caffeine may lower the quality of donated blood and reduce its effectiveness during transfusions.

    “We’ve long known about caffeine’s effects on the brain and central nervous system, but this is the first large-scale study to show its impact on red blood cell biology,” said Angelo D’Alessandro, PhD, professor of biochemistry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and the study’s corresponding author. “These results suggest that something as common as your morning coffee could significantly affect the quality of stored blood and its performance when transfused into patients.”

    Analyzing Blood Composition and the Impact of Caffeine on Red Blood Cells

    Blood consists of plasma—a straw-colored fluid—and formed elements, which include red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). Plasma, containing water, proteins, sugars, and other components, accounts for about 55% of blood volume, while the formed elements make up the remaining 45%, suspended within the plasma.

    As part of the large US blood bank study REDS RBC-Omics, researchers analyzed red blood cells from 13,091 blood donors. They measured caffeine levels in stored blood and examined its effects on red blood cell metabolism, hemolysis (cell rupture), and transfusion results. Researchers recalled 643 donors with either very high or very low red blood cell fragility to donate blood again, enabling them to study the samples over different storage periods: 10, 23, and 42 days.

    Eight healthy volunteers each drank a cup of coffee, and their blood was tested before and after to observe caffeine’s immediate effects on red blood cells. In the lab, researchers studied how caffeine affected important RBC pathways, focusing on ADORA2b signaling—a receptor that helps RBCs respond to stress and low oxygen levels—and G6PD enzyme activity, which protects RBCs from oxidative damage. To confirm these mechanisms, mice genetically engineered to lack ADORA2b were also studied, examining how caffeine exposure influenced their red blood cells’ recovery after transfusion.

    Some European countries ask donors to limit caffeine intake prior to giving blood
    Depositphotos

    Caffeine’s Impact on Red Blood Cell Stability and Oxygen Delivery

    Many blood donors had detectable levels of caffeine in their red blood cells, with levels remaining consistent across multiple donations—particularly among regular coffee drinkers. Researchers found that higher caffeine levels correlated with reduced amounts of two key molecules: adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (2,3-BPG). Since red blood cells lack a nucleus and mitochondria—the usual machinery for generating energy—they depend on a small set of chemical “fuel molecules” to survive and function. ATP and 2,3-BPG are among the most essential for this purpose.

    The study also showed that caffeine made red blood cells more fragile and more likely to rupture under stress, while increasing signs of oxidative damage. After transfusion, blood from donors with higher caffeine levels resulted in smaller increases in patients’ hemoglobin. In short, caffeine appeared to deplete the cells’ energy reserves and weaken their ability to deliver oxygen effectively throughout the body.

    Donors with common genetic variants in the ADORA2b gene experienced even poorer outcomes when caffeine was present, making their stored red blood cells particularly vulnerable. In mice lacking ADORA2b, red blood cells were already fragile, and adding caffeine during storage worsened the issue. This revealed a “double hit” effect: caffeine both blocked ADORA2b signaling and directly inhibited the G6PD enzyme, which weakened the cells’ antioxidant defenses.

    “Our findings have major real-world implications,” said D’Alessandro. “Caffeine consumption—something up to 75% of Americans regularly do—appears to be a modifiable lifestyle factor that can impact red blood cell storage quality and transfusion effectiveness. Since caffeine has a short half-life in the body, temporary dietary changes around the time of blood donation could reduce its harmful effects. This idea already aligns with blood donation guidelines in parts of Europe, where donors are advised to limit caffeine intake before giving blood.”

    Study Limitations and Potential for Personalized Blood Donation Strategies

    The study had some limitations. Only eight participants drank coffee for the metabolic testing, and all had prior caffeine exposure—none were caffeine-naïve. The donor blood samples used were about a decade old; although storage techniques have remained largely the same, donor demographics or habits might have changed over time. Additionally, red blood cell physiology in mice differs from that in humans. While the effect on transfusion outcomes was relatively modest, the potential risk for individual patients appears low but could still be significant when considered across a larger population.

    The study points to intriguing real-world implications, especially regarding blood donations for transfusions. A more personalized approach—considering donor lifestyle factors like caffeine intake and genetic traits such as ADORA2b variants—could help better match donors to recipients and improve transfusion results. For vulnerable patients, such as newborns or those in critical condition, receiving blood from low-caffeine donors might lead to better outcomes.

    Read the original article on: New Atlas

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  • Blood Clotting Discovery Heralds A “New Era In Vascular Biology”

    Blood Clotting Discovery Heralds A “New Era In Vascular Biology”

    Scientists have uncovered a previously unrecognized biological process responsible for tissue and organ damage in low-oxygen conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The findings indicate that rupturing red blood cells, rather than blood clots, are to blame.
    Image Credits: Pixabay

    Scientists have uncovered a previously unrecognized biological process responsible for tissue and organ damage in low-oxygen conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The findings indicate that rupturing red blood cells, rather than blood clots, are to blame.

    The microvasculature—a network of tiny blood vessels—is essential for supplying oxygen and nutrients to body tissues. When these vessels are damaged, it can lead to serious conditions such as heart attacks and strokes. In such cases, impaired microvascular function results in reduced blood flow, oxygen deprivation, tissue damage, and inflammation, all of which can make the condition more severe.

    New Study Uncovers Red Blood Cells as Key Cause of Tissue Damage in Low-Oxygen Conditions

    A recent study by researchers from institutions in Australia and New York has revealed a previously unidentified biological process responsible for tissue and organ damage in low-oxygen environments. Unlike earlier beliefs that blamed blood clots, this damage is actually caused by red blood cells.

    “We’ve uncovered an entirely new clotting mechanism that operates independently of the traditional system involving platelets and fibrin,” said Professor Shaun Jackson, lead author and founder of ThromBio, a company developing anti-clot therapies. “Instead, we found that dying cells trigger red blood cells to rupture, and their membranes act like biological glue—sealing damaged vessels and obstructing blood flow to vital organs.”

    Traditionally, when a blood vessel is injured, platelets rapidly adhere to the site and to each other, forming a temporary plug. Simultaneously, a series of blood proteins activates fibrin, which forms a stabilizing mesh over the platelet plug, creating a durable clot to stop bleeding.

    The researchers knew that both acute and long COVID could harm the body’s tiny blood vessels, leading to impaired circulation. Initially, the team suspected excessive fibrin was causing the problem, but blood thinners designed to break it down had limited success—prompting them to search for an alternative explanation.

    Diagram showing how the red blood cells clog small blood vessels
    ThromBio

    Endothelial Damage Linked to Ruptured Red Blood Cells in COVID-19

    In an analysis of over 1,000 blood vessels from deceased COVID-19 patients, researchers discovered significant damage to the endothelial cells—the cells lining the inside of blood vessels. This damage was widespread across small vessels in the lungs, heart, kidneys, and liver, with evidence that many of these endothelial cells had died. Under the microscope, the team observed deposits of a protein-like substance at the sites where cells had perished. Further investigation revealed that this material came from ruptured (hemolyzed) red blood cells, which had released their sticky contents, clogging the microvasculature.

    Importantly, this newly identified type of microvascular blockage wasn’t exclusive to COVID-19. In mouse models, researchers observed the same process following heart attacks, strokes, and gut ischemia—a condition in which reduced blood flow deprives the intestines of oxygen and nutrients.

    Jackson said the mechanism reveals why patients with severe COVID-19 or other critical illnesses often develop multi-organ failure, even when treatments control traditional clotting. “It marks an entirely new chapter in our understanding of vascular biology.”

    The discovery carries clear implications for medical treatment. As noted, standard blood thinners (anticoagulants) are largely ineffective in treating microvascular complications in COVID-19, since traditional blood clots aren’t the primary issue.

    “Instead of focusing on platelets or clots, future treatments could target the prevention of endothelial cell death or the subsequent damage to red blood cells,” Jackson explained. “By interrupting this process early, we may be able to maintain blood flow, safeguard organs, and ultimately save lives.”

    Read the original article on: New Atlas

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  • Caffeine In The Blood Could Influence Body Fat And Diabetes Risk

    Caffeine In The Blood Could Influence Body Fat And Diabetes Risk

    The amount of  caffeine in your blood may influence your body fat, which can impact your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
    Credit: Pixabay

    The amount of  caffeine in your blood may influence your body fat, which can impact your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

    These findings come from a 2023 study that utilized genetic markers to establish a clearer connection between caffeine levels, BMI, and the risk of type 2 diabetes.

    Experts Explore Calorie-Free Caffeinated Drinks as a Potential Aid in Body Fat Reduction

    Experts from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, the University of Bristol, and Imperial College London suggested investigating calorie-free caffeinated beverages as a potential way to help reduce body fat.

    In their March 2023 paper, the researchers stated that genetically predicted higher plasma caffeine concentrations led to lower BMI and overall body fat mass.

    “Additionally, researchers found that genetically predicted higher plasma caffeine levels lowered the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. They estimated that about half of caffeine’s effect on diabetes risk worked through reducing BMI.”

    “Study of 10,000 Genomes Links Caffeine Metabolism Genes to Body Fat Levels”

    Researchers analyzed data from nearly 10,000 individuals, drawing from existing genetic databases and focusing on variations in or near specific genes that influence how quickly the body metabolizes caffeine.

    Overall, individuals with variations in genes like  CYP1A2 and its regulator, AHR  typically metabolize caffeine more slowly, allowing it to stay in the bloodstream longer. However, they also tend to consume less caffeine overall.

    The researchers used an approach known as Mendelian randomization to identify potential causal links between the genetic variations, conditions like diabetes, body mass, and lifestyle factors.

    Credit: Caffeine in your blood may help determine your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. (StockSnap/Pixabay)

    The study found a significant connection between caffeine levels, BMI, and the risk of type 2 diabetes, but researchers observed no link between blood caffeine levels and cardiovascular diseases like atrial fibrillation, heart failure, or stroke.

    Exploring Coffee’s Impact on Heart Health and Body Weight

    Previous studies have associated a moderate increase in caffeine intake with improved heart health and a lower BMI. This research provides further insight into the effects of coffee on the body.

    We must remember that caffeine can have negative effects on the body, so we should exercise caution when considering its benefits. However, this latest study is a key step in determining the optimal amount of caffeine.

    While small, short-term studies have demonstrated that caffeine intake leads to a reduction in weight and fat mass, the long-term effects of caffeine consumption remain unknown, the researchers noted.

    “Given the widespread global consumption of caffeine, even its minor metabolic effects could have significant health consequences.“

    The team suggests that the observed link could be due to caffeine’s ability to enhance thermogenesis (heat production) and fat oxidation (converting fat into energy), both of which are crucial for overall metabolism.

    Credit: The research adds to what we know about caffeine’s effects. (Guido Mieth/Getty Images)

    Although this study included a large sample, Mendelian randomization is not foolproof, and there may be other unaccounted factors influencing the results. Further research is needed to establish cause and effect.

    “Randomized controlled trials are needed to determine whether non-caloric caffeine-containing beverages could help reduce the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes,” said Benjamin Woolf, a genetic epidemiologist at the University of Bristol.

    Read the original article on: Sciencealert

    Read more: Study Discovers Link Between Blood Caffeine Levels and Body Fat as well as Diabetes Risk

  • New Treatment Lowers Systolic Blood Pressure By 15 Points

    New Treatment Lowers Systolic Blood Pressure By 15 Points

    Scientists at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have discovered a promising experimental drug, lorundrostat, as a potential treatment for people with uncontrolled or treatment-resistant high blood pressure.
    Credit: Pixabay

    Scientists at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have discovered a promising experimental drug, lorundrostat, as a potential treatment for people with uncontrolled or treatment-resistant high blood pressure.

    The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, revealed that participants taking the new drug saw a 15-point decrease in systolic blood pressure reading, compared to a 7-point decrease in those who received a placebo.

    Dr. Michael Wilkinson, principal investigator at UC San Diego, explained, “We designed this study to assess how a new medication lowers blood pressure in people with hypertension not well-managed by current treatments.”

    “Nationwide Phase II Trial Tackles Silent Killer of 120 Million Americans: Hypertension”

    The multicenter, Phase II trial involved 285 participants, including some from UC San Diego Health, and was a collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic Coordinating Center for Clinical Research.

    The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that hypertension affects around 120 million people in the United States, nearly half of all adults, and is the leading cause of heart disease in the country. Typically, high blood pressure presents no noticeable signs or symptoms.

    When its regulation is disrupted, aldosterone, a hormone that controls blood pressure, can contribute to hypertension.

    Wilkinson explained, “We focused on exploring a new approach to correcting imbalanced aldosterone, a commonly overlooked cause of treatment-resistant hypertension.”

    Standardized Treatment Followed by Trial Drug Shows Promise in Lowering Blood Pressure

    Over a 12-week period, the trial administered a standardized antihypertensive medication to every participant. Researchers gave 190 participants the trial drug, which blocks aldosterone, and 95 received a placebo.

    “All participants took the same blood Stress meds for three weeks to establish a baseline for treatment effectiveness,” said Wilkinson, associate professor at UC San Diego. “We found the therapy reduced systolic blood pressure compared to the placebo.”

    24-Hour Monitoring Reveals Significant Drop in Systolic Blood Pressure with Treatment

    Participants’ blood pressure was continuously monitored for 24 hours at the start, middle, and end of the trial. Those on the medication saw an average 15 mmHg drop in systolic blood pressure.

    “While some participants treated with lorundrostat still had elevated blood pressure at the end of this Phase II trial, these results are encouraging as nearly all had previously struggled to lower their blood pressure with medication,” said Wilkinson.

    “As we learn more, I’m hopeful it’ll be a valuable option for managing  high blood pressure.”

    Wilkinson noted the diverse trial group could lead to more effective treatment for those at higher risk of heart disease. The next phase of the research will involve a larger Phase III trial of the medication.

    Read the orginal article on: Medical Press

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  • Regularly Giving Blood Could Benefit Your Own Health, Too

    Regularly Giving Blood Could Benefit Your Own Health, Too

    Credit: Depositphotos

    Donating blood on a regular basis not only helps save others, but it may also enhance your own blood’s health at a genetic level, according to a new study.

    A team of international researchers compared blood samples from 217 men who had donated blood over 100 times to those from 212 men who had donated fewer than 10 times, in order to observe any differences in blood health.

    Frequent Donors Show Beneficial Mutations in DNMT3A Gene

    Although the differences were small, they found that the frequent donors’ blood had a higher likelihood of possessing beneficial mutations in a gene called DNMT3A. Other mutations in this gene have been associated with blood cancer in the past.

    Our research is an intriguing example of how our genes interact with our environment and change as we age, explains stem cell biologist Dominique Bonnet from The Francis Crick Institute in the UK.

    Blood cells in bone marrow. (Hector Huerga Encabo)

    The researchers specifically focused on blood stem cells, which are responsible for producing new blood cells when needed. As we age, these mechanisms may start to fail, leading to blood-related diseases such as leukemia.

    When blood is lost, the body produces the hormone erythropoietin. In lab experiments on blood stem cells treated with erythropoietin, the researchers found that those with the DNMT3A mutation produced blood at a faster rate than those without the mutation.

    Frequent Blood Donation May Promote Healthier Blood Cells

    This finding suggests that frequent blood loss may stimulate the production of mutated blood cells. Studies in mice show that the DNMT3A mutation leads to healthier blood levels after the stress caused by blood loss.

    Activities that place low levels of stress on blood cell production allow blood stem cells to regenerate, and we believe this encourages mutations that enhance stem cell growth instead of causing disease, says Bonnet.

    A blood cell viewed under an electron microscope. (Hector Huerga Encabo)

    Donating blood could help train these stem cells to regenerate blood properly. Follow-up tests in mice confirmed this idea of enhancing regenerative capacity without introducing potentially harmful genetic mutations.

    However, there are some limitations to take into account. However, researchers must consider some limitations. Since blood donors are typically healthier (a requirement for donation), determining any additional health benefits is complicated, as these benefits may stem from their better overall health.

    Need for Larger Studies to Confirm Blood Donation’s Health Benefits

    Our sample size is relatively small, so we can’t conclusively say that donating blood reduces the incidence of pre-leukemic mutations, says Bonnet. We’ll need to study these results with a larger group of people.

    Regardless of potential health benefits — and previous research has found others — there is an urgent need for blood donors. In the U.S., someone requires blood or platelets (small blood fragments) every two seconds. Having healthier blood is an added benefit.

    The study offers valuable insights into how blood cancers begin, particularly explaining why certain dangerous mutations develop or don’t develop in response to stress, and points towards possible therapy options, although researchers need to conduct further studies to confirm these findings

    Stem cell biologist Hector Huerga Encabo, also from The Francis Crick Institute, says, We are now working to understand how these different types of mutations contribute to the development of leukemia and whether we can target them therapeutically.

    Read the original article on: Science Alert

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  • Proteins Linked to Loneliness in Your Blood May Threaten Your Health

    Proteins Linked to Loneliness in Your Blood May Threaten Your Health

    Credit: Pixabay

    Humans are naturally social creatures, thriving on connection, communication, and shared experiences that shape our identities and create a sense of belonging. However, in today’s fast-paced, digital world, feelings of loneliness and social isolation have become disturbingly widespread.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the widespread nature of loneliness, with approximately 25 percent of older adults experiencing social isolation and 5 percent to 15 percent of adolescents feeling lonely.

    The Health Risks of Social Isolation and Loneliness

    These statistics are significant because research has shown that social isolation and loneliness are linked to an increased risk of disease and premature death. In fact, a study we published in 2022 revealed that older adults who experience social isolation face a 26 percent higher risk of developing dementia. We also found a connection between loneliness and depression.

    Building on our previous research, we aimed to explore the biological processes that explain why social isolation and loneliness have such negative effects on our health. What makes loneliness so harmful to our bodies and minds?

    We focused on proteomics, the study of proteins, because proteins play a crucial role in gene expression—the process through which the information in a gene is translated into biological activity. Additionally, proteins are key targets for drug development.

    In a collaborative study between the University of Cambridge and Fudan University, published in Nature Human Behaviour, we analyzed data from 42,062 participants in the UK Biobank and examined 2,920 plasma proteins.

    The Role of Proteins in Loneliness and Social Isolation

    We investigated the link between proteins and self-reported loneliness and social isolation, discovering that proteins strongly associated with these conditions also play a role in inflammation, antiviral, and immune responses.

    Specifically, our study suggested that loneliness might contribute to higher levels of five particular proteins expressed in the brain: GFRA1, ADM, FABP4, TNFRSF10A, and ASGR1.

    In other words, all the proteins we identified as being related to loneliness were “positively associated,” meaning that individuals who experience loneliness tend to have higher levels of these proteins compared to those who do not feel lonely.

    We also analyzed data that followed the health of participants for approximately 14 years. This revealed that more than half of the proteins were linked to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and mortality.

    The Impact of Social Connections on Health

    Our findings suggest that maintaining strong social connections and avoiding loneliness may promote health by lowering certain harmful proteins. However, proteins alone may not fully explain the connection between loneliness and health—other factors, such as social stress, may also contribute.

    To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate how loneliness can impact morbidity and mortality through its association with these five key proteins.

    Social isolation and loneliness impact individuals of all ages and genders, contributing to significant mental and physical health issues. This study provides insight into how these effects manifest at a biological level.

    It highlights the importance of engaging in social activities, such as volunteering or team sports, to mitigate the impact of social isolation and loneliness on the biological processes that influence health outcomes.

    Keeping social throughout our lives could be vital for our health. (Julia Vivcharyk/Unsplash)

    The Paradox of Digital Connectivity and Loneliness

    Although technology provides new avenues for staying connected, it can sometimes result in shallow relationships that leave us feeling more isolated. This paradox—being surrounded by digital communication yet feeling deeply alone—highlights the need for genuine, meaningful social connections.

    Face-to-face interactions, which include non-verbal communication, often lead to stronger connections. In fact, one study found that people communicating in person had more positive impressions than those interacting through a computer.

    Social interactions are crucial for our overall wellbeing, benefiting both physical and mental health. They help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and support immune function. They also enhance cognitive health and promote brain wellness. Additionally, they can increase empathy and understanding, boosting emotional resilience and mental strength.

    To cultivate a thriving society, it’s essential that we build meaningful connections with one another.

    Read the original article on: Science Alert

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