A new blood type discovered in France: "Gwada negative", a global exception

A new blood type discovered in France: "Gwada negative", a global exception

Researchers at the French Blood Establishment have just discovered a previously unknown blood type. Dubbed "Gwada negative," this extremely rare blood type has so far affected only one patient of Guadeloupean origin. This is the 48th blood type officially identified worldwide.

A unique but hopeful discovery

This new group, detected thanks to recent advances in DNA sequencing, opens a new chapter in the understanding of blood compatibility. Although this patient is currently the only known carrier, researchers believe there may be other compatible individuals, particularly among Afro-Caribbean populations. Now identified, the "negative Gwada" can be the subject of targeted research worldwide. Blood group compatibility is a vital issue, particularly in cases of transfusion. Incompatible blood can cause violent reactions ranging from severe discomfort to potentially fatal consequences, says Thierry Peyrard, a medical biologist at the EFS.

A useful advancement well beyond transfusion

The discovery of new blood types isn't limited to transfusion emergencies. It also sheds light on certain previously unexplained pathologies. The specialist discusses the recent case of three siblings who had suffered from mysterious rheumatological disorders since adolescence. It was only after identifying their rare blood type that doctors were able to establish a probable link with their symptoms. The EFS is continuing its work and has already announced a promising new avenue of research, the results of which are expected by 2026. These discoveries could contribute to major advances, particularly in the fields of cancer, neurology, and rheumatology.