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.