By Erewunmi Peace

Scientists have identified a new human blood group system, successfully solving a genetic mystery that has puzzled researchers for over 50 years.

The discovery centres on an extremely rare blood characteristic involving the AnWj antigen — a protein found on the surface of red blood cells in almost all people. In 1972, doctors first noticed a patient whose blood cells lacked this antigen, but the reason remained unclear for decades.

Now, researchers from the UK and Israel have found that the absence of the AnWj antigen is linked to mutations in a gene called MAL, which plays a role in the structure of cell membranes. This breakthrough has officially established the MAL blood group system.

Key facts about the discovery:

The new blood group system is called MAL

Fewer than 1 in 1,000 people worldwide are affected

It solves a mystery first documented more than 50 years ago

The finding helps ensure safer blood transfusions for rare cases

Experts say the breakthrough is important for patients who lack the AnWj antigen because their immune systems may react dangerously if they receive blood from typical donors during transfusions.

Although the new system is rare and won’t affect the majority of blood donations, scientists note that it highlights the ongoing need for accurate blood matching in complex medical situations.

Researchers believe this advancement could improve medical readiness for patients with unusual blood profiles and further deepen understanding of human genetics.