In 2024, British researchers made a breakthrough discovery in the field of hematology, identifying a new blood group system related to the Mal protein. This discovery, although affecting a small percentage of the population, may have important implications in the context of rare hemolytic complications. 

AnWj antigen and Mal protein 

The newly identified blood group system is based on the presence of the AnWj antigen on the surface of erythrocytes. More than 99.9% of people have this antigen, which classifies them as AnWj-positive. A small percentage of the population, less than 0.1%, is AnWj-negative, which is due to a deletion of the MAL gene responsible for encoding the Mal protein, crucial for the production of the AnWj antigen. 

The identification of a new blood group system associated with the Mal protein represents an important step in the field of hematology. In rare cases, AnWj-negative patients may experience hemolytic complications after blood transfusion from an AnWj-positive donor. Recognizing this incompatibility will allow better matching of donor and recipient blood, minimizing the risk of hemolytic reactions. 

Future prospects 

Although cases of incompatibility in this system are extremely rare, awareness of their existence allows for better diagnosis and treatment of patients with hemolytic complications. 

Sources: Biotechnology.co.uk, Nauka w Polsce.p