Many countries lack blood donors. The quest to create an artificial, lab-made blood type that could make up for supply shortages is extremely difficult. But there are some technologies that offer hope.

London

Blood is a vital component of the human body, responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products. It consists of red and white blood cells, platelets, and plasma, each serving essential roles such as oxygen delivery, immune defense, and wound healing. Blood cells are primarily produced in the red bone marrow, with the liver and spleen also capable of this function under certain conditions.

Due to the short lifespan of many blood cells, a constant supply is necessary. Many countries struggle with insufficient blood donations, prompting scientific efforts to develop artificial or lab-made blood. While replicating the complex structure and functions of natural blood is challenging, ongoing research and emerging technologies offer hope for addressing global blood shortages in the future.

Can lab-made blood make up for global shortages?

What is our blood made of, and where is it formed? Every adult has between 5 and 6 litres of blood. Because it enables all of the other important bodily functions, blood is sometimes called a liquid organ. Almost half of it, though, is made up of solid components. Red blood cells give it the characteristic colour. They supply the body with oxygen and transport gaseous carbon dioxide waste to the lungs to be exhaled. The platelets, on the other hand, play an important role in clotting and healing wounds. And the white blood cells are able to recognise and ward off pathogens. The cells and platelets are suspended in what's called blood plasma. This clear yellowish fluid is made up of water, nutrients, hormones, minerals and proteins. Through a branching circulatory system that is almost 100,000 kilometres long, the blood is distributed to the farthest reaches of the body. Besides oxygen and CO2, blood carries and distributes hormones, nutrients and also heat. Its cells form in the so-called red bone marrow, a net-like tissue that itself has a plentiful blood supply. In adults, blood is mostly produced in short, flat bones like the ribs and sternum. In children, formation occurs in bones all over the body. The red bone marrow is home to special stem cells that are able to produce all the different types of blood cells. Many blood cells live only a few days. They have to be replenished constantly. And by the way, before birth, blood is produced mainly in the liver and spleen. And these organs can resume the task even in adults, if for some reason the red bone marrow is damaged.

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