Highlights:
- The unique feature of this rare blood group is the absence of the AnWj antigen.
- There are estimated to be only 40-50 people with this blood group worldwide.
For years, the scientific community has been aware of the four main blood types: A, B, AB, and O, which also come in positive and negative varieties. Recently, a new rare blood group has been identified after being shrouded in mystery for half a century. This discovery began when scientists encountered a blood sample from a woman that did not match any known blood group.
Named MAL, this new rare blood group was first noted in 1972 when a pregnant woman’s blood sample puzzled researchers. It did not correspond with any of the four main blood groups or even with other known rare types. This prompted a lengthy investigation that has now yielded results.
According to a report by Science Alert, the MAL blood group is characterized by the absence of the AnWj antigen, which is present in over 99.9% of the population. Scientists believe this may be due to genetic mutations.
What is the MAL Blood Group?
Interestingly, the AnWj antigen is not present in newborns but appears shortly after birth. The identification of this new blood group could enhance our understanding of various genetic disorders, potentially leading to new treatment options. The MAL protein is essential for maintaining cell membrane stability and facilitating cell transport.
The MAL blood group could also be linked to rare blood disorders, allowing researchers to better understand how these conditions impact patients. Although it’s hard to estimate how many people have this blood group, it is believed to be extremely limited.
Golden and Bombay Blood Groups
The Golden blood group, or Rh null, has historically been considered the rarest blood type. Similarly, there is the Bombay blood group, which is also quite rare. Both types pose significant risks due to their rarity.
The Golden blood type is known for its absence of the Rh factor. Before its discovery in 1961, doctors believed that no one could survive without this factor. The first known case was found in an Australian woman.
Understanding the Rh Factor
The Rh factor relates to red blood cells (RBCs), which contain proteins known as antigens. Each blood group is identified by the presence or absence of specific antigens. If your blood lacks common antigens, it may be classified as rare. So far, only 43 individuals with this blood group have been identified, from countries including Brazil, Colombia, Japan, Ireland, and the United States.
The Bombay Blood Group
Another rare type is the Bombay blood group, first identified in Mumbai in 1952, hence its name. This group occurs in about 1 in a million people. In India, it is estimated that only one in 10,000 individuals has this blood type, also referred to as the HH blood type.
Summary of Blood Types
- AB Negative: The rarest blood type, found in only 1% of the population.
- B Negative: Present in 2% of the population.
- RO Subtype: A rare type often used for treating sickle cell disease.
- AB Positive: Found in 4% of the population.
- O Negative: Present in 7% of the population.
- B Positive: Found in 11% of the population.
- A Positive: Present in 32% of the population.
- O Positive: The most common, found in 40% of the population.
The discovery of the MAL blood group not only adds to our understanding of human genetics but also highlights the importance of continued research in the field of blood types and their implications for health.