For the first time, scientists have created red blood cells in a laboratory and injected them into human trial subjects. The goal is to create very rare blood types that normally aren’t readily available for patients like those with sickle cell anemia, who need transfusions on a regular basis.
According to news reports, the research focuses on the red blood cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. In the lab researchers took stem cells, purified them to remove white blood cells, and then transfused into the study subjects.
If the procedure proves successful, researchers said the lab-grown blood could last longer in storage than regular blood.
SOURCES:
CNBC November 7, 2022
YouTube BBC November 8, 2022