Particle.news

Download on the App Store

ISBT Recognizes “Gwada Negative” as 48th Blood Group in Guadeloupe Woman

High-throughput DNA sequencing revealed the unique mutation behind Gwada negative, prompting a global search for other carriers to enhance rare-type transfusion matching.

Serum tubes with blood samples from patients are processed in the central medical laboratory of the St. Georg Clinic in Leipzig.
A French woman from the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe has been identified as the only known carrier of a new blood type
Image
Image

Overview

  • An unusual antibody surfaced in the patient’s pre-surgery tests in 2011 but lacked resources for further study until 2019.
  • Researchers used high-throughput DNA sequencing to pinpoint a novel genetic mutation defining the new antigen.
  • The woman inherited Gwada negative from both parents, each carrying the same mutated gene.
  • Official ratification by the International Society of Blood Transfusion in early June makes it the world’s 48th recognized blood group system.
  • Scientists are now seeking additional carriers to improve matching and care for patients with rare blood types.