A team of researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) has made a groundbreaking advancement by developing special enzymes designed to convert a human transplant from blood type A to the universal type O.
The study findings revealed that these innovative enzymes have the potential to prevent mismatches and rejection of donated organs in future transplant procedures.
In a significant development, a kidney that had been converted with the enzymes was successfully transplanted into a brain-dead patient, with the family’s consent. This unique case allowed the researchers to observe the immune response in a controlled setting without endangering a living individual.
Remarkably, the transplanted kidney functioned effectively in the brain-dead recipient’s body without any signs of rejection initially. It was only after the third day that a mild reaction occurred, which was significantly less severe compared to a typical mismatch scenario. Encouragingly, indications showed that the body was starting to accept and tolerate the organ.
The researchers, led by professors from UBC’s Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the Centre for Blood Research, have been dedicated to developing these special enzymes with the ultimate goal of creating universal donor blood. Their innovative approach aims to modify various blood types to closely resemble the universal type O, making it possible for a patient’s immune system to accept an organ even if it is from a different blood type.
This groundbreaking research represents a significant step forward in potentially reducing transplant waiting times and improving patient outcomes. The successful kidney transplant, resulting from over a decade of meticulous research, marks a crucial milestone in the journey towards making universal donor blood a reality.