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3 comments

[–] smallpond [OP] 1 points (+1|-0)

Similar processes are currently used to change blood, but this new method is 30 times faster. The team still needs to test the enzymes further to make sure there are no unintended consequences before using this technique in clinical settings.

So actually, not that groundbreaking... but TIL it could be done.

[–] [Deleted] 1 points (+1|-0)

it says the sugars in mucins "ate the antigens turning it into type o blood". Is it really type o blood or is it type A missing it's antigens? I wonder how the body would react to a transfusion of type A blood missing the antigens...I mean, does that mean the surface of the cell is completely devoid of antigenic behavior?

[–] smallpond [OP] 0 points (+0|-0)

There are four blood types: A, B, AB and O. Even though the red blood cells in each type are similar, they have different sugars, or antigens, on the surface of the cells, according to the American Red Cross. Type A blood cells have A antigens, while Type B blood cells have B antigens. Type AB has both A and B antigens, but O has no antigens at all, which makes O compatible with the other main blood types because it’s not bringing in any antigens that the new blood won't recognize.

According to the article that's it. Type A blood has A antigens. Take them away and you have type O blood. It's not my field..