Scientists discover way to produce unlimited blood supply

[TexasTowelie]

March 24 (UPI) -- Researchers at the University of Bristol in England have created the first immortalized blood cell lines, allowing for the mass production of red blood cells.

The team of researchers collaborated with NHS Blood and Transplant to create large-scale manufactured red blood cells, which could lead to a safe source of transfusions for people with rare blood types and to compensate for blood donation shortages.

Previous studies have involved growing donated stem cells into mature red blood cells, but this method produces only small numbers of mature cells and requires repeated donations.

"Previous approaches to producing red blood cells have relied on various sources of stem cells which can only presently produce very limited quantities," Dr. Jan Frayne, of the University of Bristol's School of Biochemistry, said in a press release. "By taking an alternative approach we have generated the first human immortalized adult erythroid line {Bristol Erythroid Line Adult or BEL-A}, and in doing so, have demonstrated a feasible way to sustainably manufacture red cells for clinical use from in vitro culture. Globally, there is a need for an alternative red cell product. Cultured red blood cells have advantages over donor blood, such as reduced risk of infectious disease transmission."

Read more: http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2017/03/24/Scientists-discover-way-to-produce-unlimited-blood-supply/4351490362381/

[NNadir]

1. This is an interesting piece of tissue regeneration, but the caveat is that...

...another type of immortalized cell is a cancer cell.

In fact, cancer cells - the most famous example is the HeLa cell described in The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks are often used in research where cultured cells are required.

It only became possible to cure Hepatitis C after a cancerous liver cell type HuH7 was shown to be capable of in vitro culturing.

This blood culturing is promising, but I would expect it would need very serious clinical trials in order to show that it is safe before advancing from the bench top to commercial practice.

[Pacifist Patriot]

2. This is the type of commentary...

I truly appreciate. Thank you for providing another aspect to consider. Your response is the kind I find valuable. Cheers! 😊

[NNadir]

4. You're most welcome. Thank you for your kind words. n/t.

[OregonBlue]

5. I agree. I read these things and think how wonderful but really appreciate the caveats.

[Bernardo de La Paz]

3. tRump's lopsided budget wants to reduce health research a lot. . . . nt

[Rhiannon12866]

6. This is great news! In times of crisis, donations are badly needed

I started donating blood when I turned 18 and my mother used to get the occasional call from the local hospital to come in and donate - if someone with her blood type was scheduled for surgery since she had the rarest type - AB.