Frequent Blood Donation May Promote Beneficial Genetic Changes in Stem Cells

New research suggests regular blood donors develop unique genetic mutations that support healthy blood cell production without increasing cancer risk.

Scientists at the Francis Crick Institute studied blood samples from over 200 frequent donors and found distinct genetic mutations in blood stem cells compared to sporadic donors.
Frequent donors exhibited mutations in the DNMT3A gene, but these changes were not associated with an increased risk of leukemia or other blood cancers.
Laboratory experiments showed that these mutations improved the stem cells' ability to regenerate red blood cells under stress, such as blood loss, without promoting cancerous growth.
The study highlights how low-level stress from regular blood donation may favor mutations that enhance stem cell function and resilience rather than disease progression.
Researchers emphasize that more extensive studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore potential therapeutic applications for preventing blood cancers.