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Converting Blood Types May Be Possible

Week of February 18 - It may prove to be one of the most important medical discoveries of our time. Researchers say they may soon be able to convert blood types—something that could do away with blood supply shortages and save countless lives each year. Dr. David Winter tells us more in tonight’s HealthSource report.

ANNIE HAMILTON
Blood Donor
“I’ve been trying to give more lately because I know there’s a major need for blood.”

DR. WINTER
Blood drives like this one are the only way to keep the city’s blood supplies from hitting critical lows.

DR. EDWARD MAYS
Director of Transfusion Services
Baylor University Medical Center
“We’re almost always short of blood at times—especially group O.”

DR. WINTER
“O” is known as the universal type since it can be given to anyone—and is often the only option for patients in emergencies who either don’t know or can’t relay their blood type to doctors.

DR. EDWARD MAYS
“So if you could actually take the blood supply you have and convert all of that to the O universal type that could alleviate shortages for us.”

DR. WINTER
That’s exactly what researchers now say they’re a step closer to doing thanks to the discovery of two enzymes.

DR. EDWARD MAYS
“So the idea is that these enzymes they found can actually convert, scissor off the sugar-antigen component of the As and the Bs and convert those to Os.”

DR. WINTER
Experts say although the research is promising it’s still in its early stages…

DR. EDWARD MAYS
“It still does need to undergo clinical trials to see that it’s safe and effective.”

DR. WINTER
But if it works it could one day eliminate blood supply shortages around the world.

ANNIE HAMILTON
“I think it’s awesome… we’ll be able to help more people with less blood.”

DR. WINTER
For Baylor Health Care System, I’m Dr. David Winter.

ANCHOR TAG
Right now 38,000 blood donations are needed everyday.