Gut Bacteria
Could Provide Key

To Making ‘Universal’ Blood Type

Newsroom

Gut bacteria could provide key to making ‘universal’ blood type

Canadian researchers say they may have identified substances from the human gut that could turn Type A and B blood into Type O blood — a discovery that could make blood donation simpler, especially in times of emergency.

People with Type O negative blood are considered universal donors, as they can donate blood to anyone. That’s why Type O negative blood is always in high demand during emergencies, when there is often little time to test a patient’s blood type to make sure it matches a donor.

Dr. Stephen Withers was interviewed about his research as a part of this CTV News article. Read the full article on CTV News’ website.