Japanese researchers have made a man‑made blood substitute that could solve the global shortage of donor blood. The World Health Organization says many hospitals do not have enough blood on hand—especially during accidents, surgeries, and other emergencies. If all goes well in clinical trials, Japan hopes to start using this artificial blood in real hospitals by 2030.
How It Works—
- No blood types needed: Ordinary blood must match A, B, AB, or O. The new “universal” blood has no type, so doctors can use it for anyone right away.
- Made from expired donations: Scientists take hemoglobin—the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen—from old donor blood that would normally be thrown away. They wrap it in a tiny protective shell to stop it from breaking down.
- Long shelf life: Real blood lasts only a few weeks in a fridge. This artificial blood can sit on a shelf at room temperature for up to two years.
- Virus‑free and safer: Because it is made in the lab and sealed in that shell, it avoids the risk of spreading viruses.
Why This Matters
- Faster emergency care: Paramedics and trauma centers could carry one kind of blood for everyone, saving precious minutes.
- Help for remote areas: Small clinics without special storage can keep this blood on hand much longer.
- Steady supply: It reduces pressure on blood banks and donors.
Testing Plan
Researchers at Nara Medical University will first make sure the blood is safe. Volunteers will receive 100–400 milliliters (about half to two cups) to watch for side effects. Later tests will check how well it carries oxygen and helps patients recover.
If the trial succeeds, Japan will be the first country to put artificial blood into real‑world medical use—potentially changing health care everywhere.
