UBC researchers create enzymes that eliminate blood types

Researchers at UBC have developed special enzymes that help to convert a human transplant from blood type A to universal type O.

The research results show that the special enzymes could help prevent a mismatch and rejection of donated organs in the future.

According to a UBC press release, an enzyme-converted kidney was transplanted into a brain-dead recipient, with consent from the family.

This was done to allow the researchers to observe the immune response without risking a life.

The kidney functioned in the brain-dead body without signs of rejection.

Only after the third day did the body exhibit a mild reaction.

“But the damage was far less severe than in a typical mismatch, and researchers saw signs that the body was beginning to tolerate the organ,” the press release read.

Kidneys from blood type O donors are universally compatible with other blood types. However, type-O patients can only receive type-O organs.

Professors at UBC’s Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the Centre for Blood Research spearheaded the research that led to the development of the special enzymes.

Their goal is to create universal donor blood.

The idea is that their special enzymes manipulate different blood types so that all types are similar enough to universal blood type O.

Only then will a patient’s immune system resist attacking a donated organ if it comes from a ‘wrong’ blood type.

Creating universal donor blood would be a step toward helping patients get transplants sooner.

This transplant was the first of its kind and the result of more than 10 years of research.

“Seeing our discoveries edge closer to real-world impact is what keeps us pushing forward,” said UBC Professor Dr. Steve G. Withers, one of the researchers involved in the study.