A team of researchers from Nara University led by Hiromi Sakai created a synthetic blood substitute based on hemoglobin extracted from expired donor blood. During tests, it turned out that it is suitable for people with any blood type.
Its main advantage is that there is no need to check the blood type. This is especially important for emergency transfusions. Artificial blood can be stored for up to two years at room temperature and up to five years in the refrigerator. Regular donor blood can only be used for 42 days.
The technology is based on hemoglobin vesicles, artificial oxygen carriers. Hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood, is placed in a protective shell to create artificial red blood cells. They do not contain viruses and do not cause rejection, as they are devoid of antigens that determine the blood group.
Human trials have already begun. In 2022, the first tests with injections of up to 100 ml of artificial blood were conducted on healthy volunteers. Side effects were minimal – only mild reactions without a threat to vital signs. By 2030, the technology could enter clinical practice.
